Methodological challenges in using human umbilical artery as a model for in vitro studies

Abstract

Abstract Human umbilical artery (HUA) preparations are of particular importance for in vitro studies on isolated blood vessels because their sampling is not risky for the patient, and they can provide the closest possible impression of changes related to the uteroplacental circulation during pre‐eclampsia. Using organ bath techniques, useful experimental protocols are provided for measuring some pathophysiological phenomena in the vascular responses of HUAs. Several vasoconstrictors (serotonin, prostaglandin F and phenylephrine) and vasodilators (acetylcholine and minoxidil) were seleted for determination of their vasoactivity in HUAs. The role of L‐type voltage‐operated calcium channels and different types of potassium channels (KATP, BKCa and KV) were assessed, as was the impact of homocysteine. Serotonin was confirmed to be the most potent vasoconstrictor, while acetylcholine and phenylephrine caused variability in the relaxation and contraction response of HUA, respectively. The observed increase in serotonin‐induced contraction and a decrease in minoxidil‐induced relaxation in the presence of homocysteine suggested its procontractile effect on HUA preparations. Using selective blockers, it was determined that KATP and KV channels participate in the minoxidil‐induced relaxation, while L‐type voltage‐dependent Ca2+ channels play an important role in the serotonin‐induced contraction. The presented protocols reveal some of the methodological challenges related to HUA preparations and indicate potential outcomes in interpreting the vascular effects of the investigated substances, both in physiological conditions and in the homocysteine‐induced pre‐eclampsia model.

Keywords

• experimental protocols
• organ bath system
• umbilical cord
• vasoactivity