Description
Prostaglandin E1, synthesized through cyclooxygenase-mediated metabolism of dihomo-γ-linolenic acid (DGLA), functions by inhibiting platelet aggregation (IC50= 40 nM) and enhancing vasodilation. Its analog, 13,14-dihydro-16,16-difluoro PGE1, and the metabolite, 13,14-dihydro PGE1, both retain similar anti-aggregatory properties to the original compound. The inclusion of two electron-withdrawing fluorine atoms in 13,14-dihydro-16,16-difluoro PGE1 is believed to increase molecular stability and potentially extend bioavailability by resisting hydrolytic degradation.