13,14-didehydro-20-methylcarboprostacyclin

Description

## 13,14-Didehydro-20-methylcarboprostacyclin: A Powerful Research Tool

**13,14-Didehydro-20-methylcarboprostacyclin (also known as iloprost)** is a synthetic analogue of prostacyclin, a naturally occurring molecule produced by the body. It is a potent vasodilator and antiplatelet agent, making it a valuable research tool in various fields.

**Key properties and importance:**

* **Potent vasodilator:** Iloprost relaxes blood vessels, leading to increased blood flow. This property is crucial for research investigating:
* **Cardiovascular diseases:** Iloprost's ability to improve blood flow is studied in conditions like pulmonary hypertension, peripheral artery disease, and heart failure.
* **Stroke and ischemic injury:** Its vasodilatory effect can help protect brain cells from damage during stroke or other ischemic events.
* **Antiplatelet activity:** Iloprost inhibits platelet aggregation, preventing blood clots from forming. This property is investigated in research on:
* **Thrombosis and embolism:** Understanding iloprost's anti-thrombotic effects can lead to new treatments for conditions like deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism.
* **Atherosclerosis:** Iloprost's antiplatelet activity can potentially help manage plaque buildup in arteries.
* **Other pharmacological actions:** Iloprost also possesses anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, making it relevant for research on conditions like:
* **Inflammatory bowel disease:** Iloprost's ability to suppress inflammation is being investigated in treating inflammatory bowel diseases.
* **Autoimmune diseases:** Research explores iloprost's potential for managing autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus.

**Advantages as a research tool:**

* **High potency:** Iloprost is highly potent and has a longer half-life compared to natural prostacyclin, allowing for easier administration and sustained effects.
* **Selective action:** Iloprost targets specific receptors and pathways, allowing researchers to isolate and study specific effects.
* **Availability:** Iloprost is commercially available and readily accessible for research purposes.

**Limitations:**

* **Short half-life:** Although longer than natural prostacyclin, iloprost's half-life is still relatively short, requiring frequent administration in research studies.
* **Side effects:** While generally well-tolerated, iloprost can cause some side effects, including headache, flushing, and hypotension.

**Overall:**

13,14-Didehydro-20-methylcarboprostacyclin (iloprost) is a valuable research tool with a wide range of applications. Its potent vasodilatory and antiplatelet properties, combined with its selectivity and availability, make it an essential instrument for investigating a variety of diseases and conditions. However, its limitations, such as its short half-life and potential side effects, should be considered when designing research studies.

13,14-didehydro-20-methylcarboprostacyclin: RN given refers to (3aS-(2E,3aalpha,4alpha(R*),5beta,6aalpha))-isomer [Medical Subject Headings (MeSH), National Library of Medicine, extracted Dec-2023]