Description

Alprostadil

Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) | Vascular & Pharmacological Research Compound

Alprostadil is a synthetic form of prostaglandin E1 (PGE1), a naturally occurring prostaglandin involved in vascular and smooth-muscle signaling. It has been extensively studied for its vasodilatory activity, platelet-related effects, and prostaglandin receptor signaling. PubChem identifies alprostadil as PGE1 with the molecular formula C₂₀H₃₄O₅ and molecular weight 354.5 g/mol.

Alprostadil is an established pharmaceutical compound in certain clinical settings, including erectile dysfunction and maintenance of ductus arteriosus patency in specific neonatal cardiac conditions. Because of this, it should be distinguished from experimental research-only compounds.

Key Characteristics of Alprostadil

  • Compound: Alprostadil
  • Also Known As: Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1)
  • Chemical Formula: C₂₀H₃₄O₅
  • Molecular Weight: 354.5 g/mol
  • Compound Class: Prostaglandin / lipid mediator
  • Primary Research Areas: Vascular biology, smooth-muscle signaling, prostaglandin pharmacology
  • CAS Number: 745-65-3

Research Applications

Alprostadil may be investigated in research involving:

  • Prostaglandin receptor signaling
  • Vascular smooth-muscle biology
  • Vasodilation mechanisms
  • Platelet-related pathways
  • Cardiovascular and vascular research
  • Smooth-muscle physiology
  • Pharmacological receptor studies
  • Prostaglandin metabolism and activity
  • Analytical identification and characterization

Research Profile

Alprostadil acts as a prostaglandin E1 receptor agonist and produces biological effects through prostaglandin signaling pathways. Research commonly focuses on its ability to influence vascular smooth-muscle relaxation and blood-flow-related mechanisms.

Its well-characterized pharmacology also makes it useful as a reference compound for studies involving prostaglandin-mediated signaling and vascular responses.

Research Advantages

Established Prostaglandin Model

Provides researchers with a well-characterized PGE1 compound for controlled pharmacological and biochemical studies.

Vascular Research Utility

Useful for investigating mechanisms associated with vascular smooth-muscle relaxation and vasodilatory signaling.

Receptor Signaling Research

Can be incorporated into studies examining prostaglandin receptor activation and downstream cellular responses.

Analytical Research

Suitable for analytical workflows assessing compound identity, purity, concentration, stability, and formulation characteristics.

Quality & Documentation

For laboratory or analytical applications, researchers should review applicable Certificate of Analysis (COA) and batch documentation. Relevant quality parameters may include identity, purity, concentration, stability, appearance, and formulation-specific specifications.

Important Safety & Regulatory Note

Alprostadil is a pharmacologically active drug, not simply a research chemical. It has recognized medical uses and can produce clinically significant effects. It should therefore not be presented as a supplement or general-purpose wellness product.

For laboratory research, handling should follow appropriate safety procedures and applicable regulatory requirements. Human use should occur only under appropriate medical supervision and according to an authorized product’s labeling.