Role of nitric oxide in the vascular adaptations at the maternal-fetal interface

BELTRAME, JIMENA S; SORDELLI, MICAELA S; CAÑUMIL, VANESA A; RIBEIRO MARÍA LAURA

Advances in Medicine and Biology

Nova Science Publishers, Inc.

Lugar: Nueva York; Año: 2018;

Implantation failure is common following natural conceptions and is an important clinical hurdle to overcome following assisted reproductive attempts. Formation of new maternal blood vessels and the acquisition of an endothelial phenotype by the trophoblast are critical for the establishment and maintenance of gestation. The proper coordination of several vascular processes at the maternal-fetal interface ensures an adequate blood flow in response to the increasing metabolic demands of the embryo. Nitric oxide (NO) is an important mediator of neovascularization and angiogenesis in different biological systems. It is well known that NO production should be strictly regulated to allow embryo implantation. Based on our observations, we postulate that modulation of NO concentrations at the maternal-fetal interface is relevant for maintaining early gestation due to failures in vascular adaptations. Other authors also published evidences that strongly suggest that optimal levels of NO are determinant for endometrial function and embryo implantation. NO regulates vascular tone, angiogenesis, and cellular aggregation and adhesion, which are important functions in establishing and maintaining normal pregnancy. Together, these evidences point out a protective role for NO on uterine vascular functions as appears involved in the induction of the endovascular phenotype at the maternal-fetal interface.