[The role of nitric oxide in trauma and infection]

Nitric oxide (NO) is a very important molecule for homeostasis. It is involved in several pathological conditions ranging from hypertension to septic shock. It is synthesized from L-arginine, which is catalyzed by nitric oxide synthase (NOS). Both constitutional and inducible NOS are involved in NO synthesis. While NO produced by constitutional NOS is required for normal physiologic processes, excessive production by inducible NOS results in injury and tissue damage. Induced NO may be either protective or damaging in acute inflammatory conditions. As a result of pluripotent activities, NO presents as a paradoxical phenomenon in almost all conditions in which confusing aspects arise concerning the pathophysiology. This article reviews the role of NO in trauma and infections.