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Nitric oxide: biological role and clinical uses
M S Kannan1, S Guiang, D E Johnson
1Department of Veterinary PathoBiology, University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine, St. Paul 55108, USA. kanna001@maroon.tc.umn.edu
Indian Journal of Pediatrics
|April 20, 2000
Summary
Nitric oxide (NO), produced from L-arginine, plays key roles in neurotransmission and vascular tone. Inhaled NO is a promising treatment for conditions with abnormal pulmonary vascular tone.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Physiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Nitric oxide (NO) is synthesized from L-arginine via nitric oxide synthase (NOS).
- NO acts as a signaling molecule in neurotransmission, vascular smooth muscle tone regulation, and cytotoxicity.
- NO exhibits anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting inflammatory cytokine gene expression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the fundamental biology of nitric oxide.
- To explore the clinical applications of inhaled nitric oxide.
- To highlight NO's role in managing diseases with abnormal pulmonary vascular tone.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of nitric oxide biology and clinical studies.
- Analysis of NO's physiological and pathophysiological roles.
- Examination of recent research on inhaled nitric oxide therapy.
Main Results:
- Nitric oxide modulates vascular smooth muscle relaxation through cyclic GMP production.
- NO is implicated in various diseases, including septic shock, asthma, and reperfusion injury.
- Inhaled nitric oxide has shown efficacy in treating conditions like persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn.
Conclusions:
- Nitric oxide is a critical endogenous molecule with diverse physiological functions.
- Inhaled nitric oxide represents a significant therapeutic strategy for specific pulmonary vascular disorders.
- Further research into NO's mechanisms and applications continues to expand its clinical relevance.