Cofactors in the biosynthesis of prostaglandins F1[alpha] and F2[alpha]

Cu2+, added to enzyme preparations from vesicular gland stimulates the production of prostaglandins F. This is further enhanced by addition of dithiols, which presumably provide reducing equivalents to convert the intermediate endoperoxide to the diol, F, derivative. The increased yield of prostaglandins F is accompanied by decreased amounts of prostaglandins E, confirming the concept of a common intermediate in the biosynthesis of the two types of prostaglandin.Peer Reviewedhttp://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/2027.42/34157/1/0000443.pd