AJP - Gastrointestinal and Liver Physiology, Vol 258, Issue 1 1-11, Copyright © 1990 by American Physiological Society
Lipid mediators of inflammation in gastric ulcer
J. L. Wallace
Gastrointestinal Research Group, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
The interest in lipid mediators of inflammation as potential contributors
to the pathogenesis of gastric ulcer has increased markedly over the past
20 yr. Although a great deal is known about the actions of mediators such
as leukotrienes, thromboxane, and platelet-activating factor in
experimental models of ulceration, evidence supporting a role for these
mediators in human gastric ulcer is sorely lacking. This review attempts to
answer a number of questions regarding the contribution of these mediators
to the pathogenesis of gastric ulceration and the possible use of specific
inhibitors, antagonists, and dietary manipulation in the treatment of
gastric ulcer. Potential directions for future research in this field are
suggested as are some of the pitfalls to be avoided in such studies.
