Expression and Function of Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase Messenger RNA and Protein Are Higher in Internal Mammary Than in Radial Arteries

Endothelial cells in the IMA express higher levels of eNOS mRNA and protein than those in the RA, which is linked with higher release of NO. These findings may be related to the superior long-term patency rate of the IMA vs the RA. This study also provides some basic genetic information for grafting arteries.