IL1alpha augments prostaglandin synthesis in pregnant rat uteri by a nitric oxide mediated mechanism

This study aims to examine the possible relationship between cytokines, nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandins in the pregnant rat uterus. Results indicate that 1) IL1alpha enhances the synthesis of prostaglandins and augments NO production in pregnant rat uteri and 2) the effect of IL1alpha on prostaglandin synthesis is abolished by NMMA, a NOS inhibitor, by aminoguanidine, an iNOS inhibitor, and by NS-398, a COX-2 inhibitor. These results suggest that there is an interaction between IL1alpha, NO and prostaglandins and that are involved COX-2 and iNOS in this interrelationship. This mechanism might be important in the regulation of uterine contractility during pregnancy and labor.