Hyperosmolar Urea-Induced Uterine Contractions Following Prostaglandin Inhibition

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Abstract
The effect of hypertonic urea (5 gm/dl) on contractions and prostaglandin release by isolated pregnant rat uterine strips was studied. Isometric uterine contractions and the area under the contraction curve (integrated contractile force, ICF) were monitored on a polygraph equipped with an integrator circuit. Prostaglandins (PG) E and F were measured by ratioimmunoassay. In one experimental design the bathing media (25 ml) was completely changed at 15 min intervals. Addition of urea to the bathing media resulted in an increase in PGE release followed by an increase in ICF. In a second design, the bathing media contained urea, indomethacin, both or neither of these. The media was sampled (1 ml) and replaced at 5 min intervals. In the absence of indomethacin, urea caused an increase in ICF and PGE, but not PGF release. Preincubation with 11.2 µM indomethacin reduced PG release but did not prevent the urea-induced increase in ICF. It is concluded that prostaglandins are not an obligatory factor in hypertonic urea-induced contractions.

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