Expression of cystathionine β-synthase and cystathionine γ-lyase in human pregnant myometrium and their roles in the control of uterine contractility.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Human uterus undergoes distinct molecular and functional changes during pregnancy and parturition. Hydrogen sulfide (H(2)S) has recently been shown to play a key role in the control of smooth muscle tension. The role of endogenous H(2)S produced locally in the control of uterine contractility during labour is unknown.

Methodology/principal findings

Human myometrium biopsies were obtained from pregnant women undergoing cesarean section at term. Immunohistochemistry analysis showed that cystathionine-γ-lyase (CSE) and cystathionine-β-synthetase (CBS), the principle enzymes responsible for H(2)S generation, were mainly localized to smooth muscle cells of human pregnant myometrium. The mRNA and protein expression of CBS as well as H(2)S production rate were down-regul

SUBMITTER: You XJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3160323 | biostudies-literature | 2011

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature