Estrogen augments the vasodilatory effects of vascular endothelial growth factor in the uterine circulation of the rat
Article Abstract:
Estrogen appears to be responsible for the relaxation of uterine arteries during pregnancy, according to a study in rats. It produces this effect by stimulating the production of nitric oxide in blood vessels.
Publication Name: American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0002-9378
Year: 2000
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Interaction of myogenic and adrenergic mechanisms in isolated, pressurized uterine radial arteries from late-pregnant and nonpregnant rats
Article Abstract:
Pregnancy may change the contractile properties of uterine radial arteries significantly. The contractile properties of blood vessels are those that affect blood vessel constriction and dilation. A study examined the contractile properties of uterine radial arteries in 18 rats in the late stages of pregnancy and in 28 non-pregnant rats. The uterine arteries of pregnant rats were significantly larger in diameter than those of non-pregnant rats. The arteries of pregnant rats were more sensitive to phenylephrine, a substance that causes blood vessel constriction, than those of non-pregnant rats. Response to pressure originating in muscle tissue was increased in the uterine arteries of pregnant rats, compared with those of non-pregnant rats. The properties of uterine arteries may change during pregnancy to better regulate the distribution of blood in the uterus.
Publication Name: American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0002-9378
Year: 1993
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Gestation increases nitric oxide-mediated vasodilation in rat uterine arteries
Article Abstract:
Pregnancy may increase the release of nitric oxide from the lining of blood vessels, especially in the uterus. Nitric oxide is a potent vasodilator. Researchers compared nonpregnant rats to those in late pregnancy to determine the effect of pregnancy on the tone and responsiveness of blood vessels. Rats in late pregnancy exhibited increased release of nitric oxide from blood vessel linings in the uterus under resting, activated, and chemically-stimulated conditions. The net effect during pregnancy may be to decrease vascular tone and vascular resistance, leading to an increase in uterine circulation.
Publication Name: American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0002-9378
Year: 1997
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