Abstract: | A standardized, highly specific routine method was developed for the quantitative profiling of cyclooxygenase metabolites of arachidonic acid in animal tissues. Whole homogenates were used to assess the potential capacity of tissues to metabolize endogenous arachidonic acid. Samples were analyzed by high-resolution gas chromatography-mass spectrometry in the selected ion monitoring mode. The screening of several rat tissues by this method revealed marked tissue-specificity in both the synthesis capacity and prostaglandin profile. The major products detected were: 6-ketoprostaglandin F1alpha for lung, stomach, muscle and heart; prostaglandin D2 for spleen, brain and liver; prostaglandin F2alpha for kidney and prostaglandin E2 for seminal vesicles. Marked species differences were found when guinea pig tissues were analyzed. |