Modulation of phospholipase A sub(2) lytic activity by actin and myosin

Prostacyclin (PGI sub(2)) production is closely coupled with endothelial cell shape and F-actin distribution in vitro. These findings may implicate cytoskeletal constituents in a mechanism regulating eicosanoid metabolism. To determine the potential for such a regulatory mechanism, cytoskeletal protein effects on the rate-limiting eicosanoid cascade enzyme (phospholipase A sub(2); PLA sub(2)) were studied. The findings suggest that the in vitro correlation between PGI sub(2) production and endothelial cell shape may be the result of PLA sub(2) regulation by cytoskeletal elements that impart cellular form.