Nitric oxide in the human uterine cervix: endogenous ripening factor

Mervi R H Väisänen-Tommiska

doi:10.1080/07853890701716802

Nitric oxide in the human uterine cervix: endogenous ripening factor

Ann Med. 2008;40(1):45-55. doi: 10.1080/07853890701716802.

Author

Mervi R H Väisänen-Tommiska¹

Affiliation

¹ Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland. mervi.vaisanen-tommiska@hus.fi

PMID: 18246474
DOI: 10.1080/07853890701716802

Abstract

The human uterine cervix can produce nitric oxide (NO), a free radical with an ultra-short half-life. The release of NO changes during pregnancy and is increased in early nonviable pregnancies compared to normal uncomplicated pregnancies. This review concentrates on the role of NO release in cervical ripening in pregnant women. Also some suggestions on future aspects are discussed.

Publication types

Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Review

MeSH terms

Animals
Cervical Ripening / drug effects
Cervical Ripening / physiology*
Cervix Uteri / drug effects
Cervix Uteri / metabolism
Cervix Uteri / physiology
Female
Humans
Nitric Oxide / biosynthesis
Nitric Oxide / physiology*
Nitric Oxide Donors / therapeutic use
Pregnancy

Substances

Nitric Oxide Donors
Nitric Oxide