Side effects and mechanism of action of prostaglandins

Special evaluation covers the period 1971-79 and is based on site visits and interviews with project staff. This productive research program has advanced both clinical expertise and drug development and has resulted in more than 50 articles being published in reputable journals. Laboratory research has successfully elucidated the basic mechanisms underlying initiation and maintenance of uterine contractions and has described progesterone withdrawal as it relates to inducing early and normal term labor. These mechanisms have increased medical understanding of prostaglandin-induced abortion but have not led to better compounds for clinical use, although screening is continuing. The use of progesterone synthesis inhibitors to regulate fertility has been limited to laboratory examination of the compound isoxazole and its abortion-inducing effects in rats. Because of possible side effects, though, it is doubtful such progestorone synthesis inhibitors will be useful in human fertility control. Progress has been made in developing prostaglandin analogues with fewer side effects, suggesting that a self administrable prostaglandin for early abortion or early menstrual regulation may eventually be found. It is recommended that the laboratory and program be continued at the current level of support with possible salary increases for the in-house staff of Washington University.