Inhibition of endogenous nitric oxide production influences ovine hindlimb metabolism independently of insulin concentrations

Abstract

The hindlimb arteriovenous difference (AVD) model was used to determine whether 30 mg/kg of the nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitor L-N G-nitroarginine methyl ester (hydrochloride; L-NAME) inhibited ovine NO synthesis and influenced muscle metabolism. Eight Border Leicester x Merino cross lambs (50 to 55 kg BW) were infused with saline (control) or saline containing L-NAME via an indwelling jugular vein catheter in a balanced randomized crossover design with 3 d between treatments. The abdominal aorta and deep femoral vein were catheterized for assessment of AVD of hind limb metabolism. Arterial hematocrit and insulin concentration and both arterial and venous concentrations of nitrate/nit..