Prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) is one of the five primary PGs derived enzymatically directly from the endoperoxide PGH2. It was initially discovered in seminal fluid, and to date the majority of the functional roles ascribed to it relate to fertility, pregnancy, and parturition. PGF2α is a potent luteolytic agent and is used to induce ovulation in domestic livestock. It is also a potent uterine stimulant, and is part of the cascade of myometrial stimulants which induce and sustain labor. PGF2α is rapidly metabolized to 13,14-dihydro-15-keto PGF2α in vivo, and the levels of this metabolite in both plasma and amniotic fluid are elevated during active labor in several different mammalian species. Like all of the primary PGs, PGF2α. has a very short half-life in the general circulation. The plasma concentration of PGF2α in humans is <10 pg/ml, and probably no more than 1-2 pg/ml.1 PGF2α is rapidly metabolized by 15-hydroxy PG dehydrogenase and both β- and ω-oxidation systems to a variety of polar metabolites.2 In primary cultures, the metabolism of PGF2α is much more limited, and it may collect in the supernatant medium to easily measured concentrations.3 Amnionic and placental tissue PGF2α content in the range from 100-250 ng/g of tissue has been reported.4 However, this study did not address the presence of isoprostanes and reported measurements using an unvalidated RIA method. A controlled GC- or LC-MS study of tissue PG content has not been reported. Tissue PG measurements in general are difficult to perform, vary widely, and are challenging to interpret.Needed but not supplied: Please download the kit booklet to verify if UltraPure Water (Milli-Q or equivalent) or any other components are needed for this assay.WARNING This product is not for human or veterinary use.
