Nitric oxide, inflammation and acute burn injury

Nitric oxide (NOz.rad;) is a diatomic mediator liberated on oxidation of L-arginine by the nitric oxide synthase (NOS) family of enzymes. It has complex and wide ranging functions in vivo and has been implicated in the development of the profound inflammatory response that occurs as a result of cutaneous burn injury. In addition, dysregulation of NOS activity has been associated with multiple organ failure in human burn patients and may therefore represent a novel therapeutic target in such circumstances. This review focuses on the role of NOz.rad; in inflammation, with particular emphasis on the acute post-burn inflammatory response. Specific areas of discussion include the maintenance of microvascular haemostasis, leukocyte recruitment and remote organ dysfunction following thermal injury.