Pravastatin induces NO synthesis by enhancing microsomal arginine uptake in healthy and preeclamptic placentas.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Pravastatin, a known inducer of endothelial nitric-oxide synthase (eNOS) was demonstrated in human placenta, however the exact mechanism of it's action is not fully understood. Since placental NO (nitric oxide) synthesis is of primary importance in the regulation of placental blood flow, we aimed to clarify the effects of pravastatin on healthy (n = 6) and preeclamptic (n = 6) placentas (Caucasian participants).

Methods

The eNOS activity of human placental microsomes was determined by the conversion rate of C14 L-arginine into C14 L-citrulline with or without pravastatin and Geldanamycin. Phosphorylation of eNOS (Ser1177) was investigated by Western blot. Microsomal arginine uptake was measured by a rapid filtration method.

Results

Pravastatin significantly

SUBMITTER: Panczel Z 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6868828 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature