The biochemical processes which transform baroreceptor, beta-adrenergic and macula densa signals into an increase or a decrease of renin secretion are unknown. Evidence is presented that the renal PG system is intimately involved in the mechanisms regulating the release of renin. In vivo stimulation of renal PG synthesis by arachidonic acid (C20:4) or furosemide increases renin release. PG synthesis inhibitors decrease basal renin release and reduce the renin release following stimulation with C20:4, furosemide and renal ischemia. In vitro, C20:4 and the PG-endoperoxides stimulate renin release from the rabbit kidney cortex whereas PGF2alpha inhibits it. This suggests an intrinsic role in the renin release mechanism of PGs, synthesized at or near the juxtaglomerular apparatus. The operation of this PG effect on renin release may depend upon a salt intake related control of PG synthesis and of conversion of PGE2 to PGF2alpha. Increased or decreased renal PG synthesis may also be the primary event leading to elevated or reduced renin levels in some clinical disorders. In Bartter's syndrome, the elevated renin levels may result from an increase in PG synthesis or a decrease of PGF2alpha formation. In benign, uncomplicated essential hypertension, decreased renal PG synthesis or increased PGS2alpha formation may be the primary mechanism which reduces renin release and renal blood flow.