Loss of Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase Exacerbates Intestinal and Lung Injury in Experimental Necrotizing Enterocolitis

摘要

BackgroundNecrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) continues to be a devastating condition among preterm infants. Nitric oxide, which is synthesized in the intestine by endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), acts as a potent vasodilator and antioxidant within the mesentery and may play a role in prevention of NEC. We hypothesized that loss of endothelial nitric oxide would worsen both intestinal and associated lung injury and increase local and systemic inflammation during experimental NEC.