The contractile effects of endothelins on isolated isthmic segment of human oviduct at the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of endothelins (ET) 1, 2 and 3 on isolated isthmic segments of the human oviduct at the luteal phase of menstrual cycle. Fallopian tubes were taken from 21 patients and the isthmic segments were mounted in an organ bath longitudinally. Tension of the isolated preparations was recorded with an isometric transducer. ET-1 and ET-2 triggered concentrationdependent tonic contractions of the isolated isthmic segment and inhibited rhythmic activity, while ET-3 caused no effect. Furthermore, the selective ETA antagonist BQ-123 and the selective ETB antagonist BQ-788 inhibited the ET-1 effects on both tone and spontaneous rhythmic contractions. These results suggested that during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, both ETA and ETB receptors participate in contractile effects of endothelins on isthmic segment of fallopian tubes, probably regulating the length of time the oocyte remains in the oviduct ampulla. © 2010 Prous Science, S.A.U.