Ultraviolet light modification of the prostaglandin receptor

Prostaglandin E₁ elicits minimal inhibition of ultraviolet lightinduced platelet aggregation. Exposure to ultraviolet light progressively inhibits prostaglandin-induced responses in both the ADP-aggregating platelet and in uterine smooth muscle. This effect, which is cumulative and lasting, may be prevented or fully reversed by a sulfhydryl-oxidizing agent. Ultraviolet light may, therefore, initiate reduction of critical disulfide groups in the vicinity of the prostaglandin receptor. The technique of ultraviolet irradiation may serve as a useful tool in the specific determination of prostaglandins in biological systems.