Effect of IL-1alpha on prostaglandin synthesis of oestrogenized rat uterus is mediated by nitric oxide

We examined the possible relationship between cytokines, nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandins in the oestrogenized rat uterus. Results indicate that: IL-1alpha but not IL-2 enhances the synthesis of prostaglandins in oestrogenized rat uteri; IL-1alpha but not IL-2 induced an augmention of NO production in this tissue; the effect of IL-1alpha on prostaglandin synthesis is abolished by NMMA, an NO antagonist; NS-398, a COX-2 inhibitor, prevents the augmention of prostaglandins produced by IL-1alpha. These results suggest that there is an interaction between IL-1alpha, NO and prostaglandins and that this interrelationship involves COX-2. This mechanism might be important during implantation and labor.