Elevation of nitrate levels in pregnant ewes and their fetuses
Article Abstract:
Elevated levels of nitric oxide during pregnancy may be beneficial in maintaining low vascular resistance in the fetal circulation and umbilical cord. Researchers studied 11 pregnant sheep and seven nonpregnant sheep to determine levels of nitrate, which reflects nitric oxide production. Nitrate levels in blood and urine were much higher in pregnant sheep than in nonpregnant sheep. Blood levels of nitrate were nine times higher in fetuses than in their mothers. Amniotic fluid had the highest levels of nitrates. Higher than normal levels of nitric oxide have been found in pregnant women as compared with postpartum levels. Nitric oxide may regulate dilation of blood vessels, thus lowering vascular resistance, during uncomplicated pregnancies.
Publication Name: American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0002-9378
Year: 1996
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Effects of combined use of sildenafil citrate (Viagra) and 17 beta-estradiol on ovine coronary and uterine hemodynamics
Article Abstract:
An attempt is made to determine whether Viagra, a type 5 phosphodiesterase inhibitor, increases baseline coronary and uterine blood flow or potentiates estrogen-induced increases in blood flow. The results suggest that Viagra significantly augments baseline and estrogen-induced increases in uterine blood flow suggesting the presence of PDE-5 in the ovine uterine vasculature.
Publication Name: American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0002-9378
Year: 2004
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