Hypothalamic digoxin, cerebral chemical dominance, and nitric oxide synthesis

The biochemical differences between right hemispheric dominant and left hemispheric dominant individuals are assessed with regard to nitric oxide synthesis. Nitric oxide is an important neurotransmitter involved in erectile function. The following parameters were evaluated: the plasma HMG CoA reductase activity, isoprenoid metabolite-digoxin, plasma magnesium and RBC membrane Na(+)-K(+) ATPase activity, and NO levels. The results showed that right hemispheric dominant individuals had increased plasma HMG CoA reductase activity and elevated digoxin levels, decreased plasma magnesium and RBC membrane Na(+)-K(+) ATPase activity, and increased levels of NO. Left hemispheric dominant individuals had the opposite patterns with reduced nitric oxide synthesis. Cerebral chemical dominance can regulate nitric oxide synthesis.