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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Prostaglandin E1 and E2?

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Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) and Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) are both ligands for the prostaglandin E2 receptor (EP) family, which consists of four subtype receptors: EP1, EP2, EP3, and EP4. However, they have different functions and effects on the body:

  1. Inflammation: PGE2 is a pro-inflammatory factor, while PGE1 acts as an anti-inflammatory factor.
  2. Reproductive system: PGE1 is used in the treatment of erectile dysfunction, while PGE2 is not.
  3. Labor induction: In a study comparing labor induction with prostaglandins E1 and E2, it was found that utilization of prostaglandin E1, compared to E2, was associated with an increased likelihood of adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes.

Despite their opposite actions on the same set of EP receptors, the molecular basis of their binding and signaling differences is not yet completely understood.

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  • What is the Difference Between Prostaglandin E1 and E2?
  • Comparative Table: Prostaglandin E1 vs E2

    • Comparative Table: Prostaglandin E1 vs E2

    Here is a table comparing the differences between Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) and Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2):

    Feature Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2)
    Anti-inflammatory or Pro-inflammatory Anti-inflammatory Pro-inflammatory
    Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction Used Not mentioned
    Labor Induction More likely to result in vaginal delivery, less oxytocin needed for labor augmentation Similar efficacy but fewer doses and adverse effects
    Myometrial Contractility Significantly increased in vitro myometrial contractility up to 90 minutes when compared to PGE2 No significant difference in myometrial contractility
    Cervical Ripening Vaginal misoprostol (PGE1) more effective than dinoprostone (PGE2) insert for induction secondary to PROM Vaginal PGE2 gel superior to misoprostol for cervical ripening in patients with premature rupture of membranes

    PGE1 is an anti-inflammatory factor, whereas PGE2 is a pro-inflammatory factor. In the context of labor induction, women receiving PGE1 (misoprostol) are more likely to deliver vaginally and require less oxytocin for labor augmentation when compared to those receiving PGE2 (dinoprostone). However, PGE2 gel is considered a superior drug compared to misoprostol due to fewer doses and adverse effects.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.