Production of NO and oxidative destruction of proteins in the placenta during normal pregnancy and placental insufficiency.

Study of NO generation and oxidative destruction of proteins showed intensification of these processes in the placenta during normal gestation. Activity of NO synthase and the concentration of nitrites in the placenta in women with placental insufficiency and spontaneous abortions were below the normal. Full-term pregnancy against the background of placental insufficiency was associated with a compensatory increase in NO production in the placenta. On the other hand, oxidative destruction of proteins increased in placental insufficiency irrespective of pregnancy outcome.