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Nitric oxide release from the isolated guinea pig heart
1Institute of Physiology, University of Düsseldorf, F.R.G.
European Journal of Pharmacology
|October 18, 1988
Summary
Nitric oxide (NO) is released from guinea pig hearts and influences blood vessel tone. This endogenous NO formation plays a significant role in regulating coronary vascular resistance.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Physiology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Nitric oxide (NO) is a signaling molecule involved in vascular function.
- Its role in regulating coronary vascular resistance requires further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify basal and stimulated nitric oxide release from isolated guinea pig hearts.
- To investigate the relationship between nitric oxide release and coronary vasodilation.
Main Methods:
- Isolated guinea pig hearts were perfused with a solution.
- Nitric oxide (NO) release was measured using a spectrophotometric assay.
- Bradykinin was used to stimulate NO release in a dose-dependent manner.
Main Results:
- Basal nitric oxide (NO) release was measured at 216 +/- 36 pmol/min.
- Bradykinin stimulated NO release in a dose-dependent manner.
- NO release preceded coronary vasodilation by approximately 5 seconds.
Conclusions:
- Endogenous nitric oxide (NO) formation is sufficient to impact coronary vascular tone.
- Nitric oxide (NO) likely plays a significant role in regulating coronary vascular resistance.