Nitric oxide may trigger lactation in humans

Iizuka, T; Sasaki, M; Oishi, K; Uemura, S; Koike, M; Minatogawa, Y

HERO ID

1661997

Reference Type

Journal Article

Year

1997

Language

English

PMID

9427887

HERO ID 1661997
In Press No
Year 1997
Title Nitric oxide may trigger lactation in humans
Authors Iizuka, T; Sasaki, M; Oishi, K; Uemura, S; Koike, M; Minatogawa, Y
Journal Journal of Pediatrics
Volume 131
Issue 6
Page Numbers 839-843
Abstract <strong>OBJECTIVE: </strong>To determine whether nitric oxide is synthesized in the breast and plays a role in lactation.<br /><br /><strong>DESIGN: </strong>Concentrations of biopterin, neopterin, and the total concentration of nitrite plus nitrate, a marker for nitric oxide generation were measured in 242 samples of breast milk obtained from 39 women during postpartum days 1 to 30. The total concentration of nitrite plus nitrate was measured in 17 sets of breast milk and serum obtained from 17 women on postpartum day 4 or 5.<br /><br /><strong>RESULTS: </strong>(1) The total concentration of nitrite plus nitrate rose and peaked just before an increase in the volume of milk secreted was observed. (2) The total concentration of nitrite plus nitrate in breast milk was not correlated with that in the serum. (3) High levels of neopterin and biopterin were found in breast milk. (4) The volume of breast milk on day 5 was correlated with the total concentration of nitrite plus nitrate observed in breast milk on days 1 to 3. (5) The total concentration of nitrite plus nitrate in the breast milk of the high secretors significantly exceeded that seen in the low secretors.<br /><br /><strong>CONCLUSIONS: </strong>We suggest that nitric oxide is synthesized in the breast and may trigger lactation in humans.
Doi 10.1016/S0022-3476(97)70030-1
Pmid 9427887
Wosid WOS:000071165100012
Is Certified Translation No
Dupe Override No
Is Public Yes
Language Text English