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Application of Genetically Encoded Fluorescent Nitric Oxide (NO•) Probes, the geNOps, for Real-time Imaging of NO• Signals in Single Cells
Published on: March 16, 2017
Nitric oxide and cell proliferation
1Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas & Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Spain. antonio.villalobo@iib.uam.es
Abstract:
Nitric oxide (NO*) has been proposed to be a physiological modulator of cell proliferation, able to promote in most cases cell cycle arrest. In this review I explore the molecular basis of this mechanism of action. The modulatory action of NO* on the intracellular concentration of cGMP and the machinery directly involved in the control of cell cycle progression, including the expression and activity of diverse cyclins and cyclin-dependent kinases, their physiological inhibitors, and the master transcriptional regulator retinoblastoma protein, will be discussed. The role of NO* in proliferation mediated by tyrosine kinase receptors such as the epidermal growth factor receptor and downstream signalling pathways will also be considered. Finally, the involvement of NO* in proliferative processes relevant for normal development will be outlined.
Insights
Nitric oxide (NO) regulates cell proliferation by modulating cell cycle arrest. This review details NO's molecular mechanisms, including its effects on cGMP, cell cycle proteins, and signaling pathways.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Cell Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Nitric oxide (NO) is recognized as a physiological modulator of cell proliferation.
- NO typically promotes cell cycle arrest, influencing cellular growth regulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the molecular mechanisms underlying NO's role in cell proliferation and cell cycle arrest.
- To discuss the involvement of NO in normal developmental processes.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on nitric oxide signaling.
- Analysis of molecular pathways involving cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP).
- Examination of cell cycle regulators, including cyclins, cyclin-dependent kinases, and retinoblastoma protein.
Main Results:
- NO modulates intracellular cGMP levels, impacting cell cycle progression.
- NO influences the expression and activity of key cell cycle regulators like cyclins, CDKs, and retinoblastoma protein.
- NO's role in tyrosine kinase receptor signaling, such as the epidermal growth factor receptor, is considered.
Conclusions:
- Nitric oxide plays a critical role in regulating cell proliferation through intricate molecular pathways.
- Understanding NO's mechanisms provides insights into cell cycle control and normal development.
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