17 beta-estradiol-stimulated nitric oxide production by neutrophils:: Effect on platelet activation

Objective: To evaluate the effect of 17 beta-estradiol (E2) on the ability of human neutrophils to produce nitric oxide (NO) and its effects on platelet activation. Methods: The expression of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) protein and the formation of NO by 17 beta-E2-incubated neutrophils from men were studied in vitro (ten male volunteers, no medical-surgical antecedents, aged 25-45 years). Platelet aggregometry and changes in cyclic guanosine monophospate (cGMP) levels were used to bioassay the functionality of NO released from neutrophils. Results: Incubation of neutrophils derived from men with physiologic concentrations of 17 beta-E2 (10(-10) to 10(-8) mol/L) enhanced the expression of nNOS protein. 17 beta-E2-incubated neutrophils also showed a significant increase in their ability to generate NO measured by the conversion of [H-3]-L-arginine to [H-3]-L-citrulline. Furthermore, 17 beta-E2-incubated neutrophils showed a greater ability to prevent adenosine diphosphate (ADP)-induced platelet activation. Moreover, increased levels of cGMP were found in the coincubation of platelets with 17 beta-E2-treated neutrophils. Conclusion: These results suggest that 17 beta-E2 increases the ability of human neutrophils to produce NO and therefore may contribute to cardiovascular disease protection. (Obstet Gynecol 2000;95:284-90. (C) 2000 by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.).