F2-isoprostanes:: sensitive and specific non-invasive indices of lipid peroxidation in vivo

Isoprostanes are members of a complex family of lipids, isomers of the conventional enzymatically derived prostaglandins (PG), which are produced in vivo primarily, if not exclusively, by a free radical-catalyzed peroxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids. Most of the work has been focused upon a group of isomers of the enzyme-derived PGF(2 alpha), called F-2-isoprostanes (F-2-iPs). Because of their mechanism of formation, chemical stability and the rapid development of sensitive methods for their measurement, they have the attraction as non-invasive indices of oxidant stress in vivo. Altered generation of F-2-iPs has been reported in a variety of clinical settings putatively associated with oxidant stress. These include atherosclerosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and Alzheimer's disease. Furthermore, the measurement of specific F-2-iPs may provide a sensitive biochemical basis for rational dose-selection of natural and synthetic inhibitor of lipid peroxidation. Although F-2-iPs possess biological activities in vitro and in vivo, much remains to be learned about their role and as mediators of the cellular effects of lipid peroxidation and oxidant stress. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.