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Updated: Aug 10, 2026

Analytical Techniques for Assaying Nitric Oxide Bioactivity
Published on: June 18, 2012
[Nitrate derivatives and coronary vasomotricity]
J M Lablanche1, F Leroy, C Bauters
1Service de cardiologie B et hémodynamique, université de Lille, hôpital Cardiologique.
Nitrate derivatives like isosorbide dinitrate (ISDN) offer rapid relief for coronary spasm and prevent arterial spasms. They also counteract exercise-induced vasoconstriction, improving oxygen supply in effort angina.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pharmacology
Context:
- Coronary artery disease diagnosis and management.
- Understanding coronary vasomotricity and endothelial function.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the efficacy of nitrate derivatives, specifically isosorbide dinitrate (ISDN), in managing coronary artery conditions.
- To assess the role of ISDN in coronary spasm, arterial spasm, and effort angina.
Summary:
- Nitrate derivatives have a weak, short-lived effect on coronary arterioles, preventing coronary steal syndrome.
- Isosorbide dinitrate (ISDN) effectively relieves coronary stenosis within 2 minutes and prevents arterial spasms.
- ISDN counteracts paradoxical vasoconstriction during exercise, improving oxygen supply in effort angina by acting directly on smooth muscle.
Impact:
- Provides insights into the diagnostic utility of vasoconstriction and vasodilatation tests.
- Highlights the therapeutic potential of ISDN in acute coronary events and chronic conditions.
- Advances understanding of endothelial dysfunction's role in ischemic heart disease.
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