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Updated: Aug 18, 2026
En Face Detection of Nitric Oxide and Superoxide in Endothelial Layer of Intact Arteries
Published on: February 25, 2016
Nitric oxide levels and nitric oxide synthase expression in uterine samples from mares susceptible and resistant to
Abdorrahman S Alghamdi1, Douglas N Foster, Cathy S Carlson
1Department of Veterinary Population Medicine, University of Minnesota, St Paul, MN 55108, USA. algh0007@umn.edu
Problem:
Breeding-induced endometritis (BIE) in the mare is resolved by 36 hr after insemination in resistant mares. However, 10-15% susceptible broodmares fail to do so because of impaired uterine contractility between 7 and 19 hr after exposure to seminal or bacterial challenge, which reduces their fertility.
Method Of Study:
Nitric oxide (NO) in uterine secretions, and expression of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) in uterine biopsies were compared between susceptible and resistant groups 13 hr after insemination.
Results:
Susceptible mares had a higher NO in their uterine secretions and greater inducible NOS (iNOS) expression in their biopsies compared with resistant mares.
Conclusions:
The NO mediates smooth muscle relaxation, but its role in persistent BIE has not been determined. Our data suggests a possible role of NO, either directly or in a NO-associated pathway, in delayed uterine clearance.
