Participation of BKCa2+ and KATP potassium ion channels in the contractility of human term pregnant myometrium in in vitro conditions.

Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the participation of ligand-sensitive potassium large conductance calcium-activated ion channels (BK(Ca2+) ) and adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-sensitive potassium ion channels (K(ATP) ) using its openers (NS1619 and pinacidil) in the contractility of human term pregnant myometrium in in vitro conditions.

Methods: Human myometrium tissue samples were collected from term pregnant laboring women who had to undergo cesarean section. The contractility of myometrium was induced by the application of oxytocin into the organ bath.

Utero-relaxant effect of PDE4-selective inhibitor alone and in simultaneous administration with beta2-mimetic on oxytocin-induced contractions in pregnant myometrium.

Background: The objective of the study was to observe the effect of rolipram, the prototype phosphodiesterase 4 selective inhibitor, on oxytocin-induced contractions of human term myometrial strips, and compare the effect with salbutamol, beta(2)-adrenergic agonist, in single and the simultaneous application.

Methods: Human myometrium was obtained from pregnant women in term that had a term delivery by the caesarian section. Myometrial strips were excised from the lower uterine segment and placed into an organ-bath with Krebs-Henseleit buffer.