Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 15, 2026
08:23
Chemiluminescence-based Assays for Detection of Nitric Oxide and its Derivatives from Autoxidation and Nitrosated Compounds
Published on: February 16, 2022
Nitric oxide in upper airways inflammatory diseases
M Maniscalco1, M Sofia, G Pelaia
1Department of Respiratory Medicine, University Federico II of Naples, Largo delle Mimose, 1, 80131 Naples, Italy. mauromaniscalco@hotmail.com
Summary
Exhaled nitric oxide (NO) from the nose and sinuses plays a role in upper airway health and inflammation. New nasal NO measurement techniques aid in understanding diseases like allergic rhinitis and sinusitis.
Area of Science:
- Respiratory Medicine
- Biochemistry
- Immunology
Background:
- The human respiratory tract, particularly the nose and paranasal sinuses, are primary sites for exhaled nitric oxide (NO) production.
- Nitric oxide in the upper airways is implicated in various regulatory, protective, and potentially harmful functions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the origin, metabolism, and functions of nitric oxide in the upper airways.
- To examine the role of NO in inflammatory upper airway diseases.
- To discuss advancements in nasal NO measurement for disease characterization.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of nitric oxide research in the upper airways.
- Analysis of the role of NO in upper airway inflammatory conditions.
- Discussion of recent technological improvements in nasal NO measurement.
Main Results:
- Nitric oxide is actively produced and metabolized in the upper airways, influencing physiological and pathological processes.
- Dysregulation of NO is associated with inflammatory diseases of the nose and sinuses.
- Improved nasal NO measurement offers a valuable tool for clinical assessment.
Conclusions:
- Nitric oxide is a key mediator in upper airway physiology and pathology.
- Nasal and sinus-derived NO is crucial in understanding inflammatory upper airway diseases.
- Advanced nasal NO measurement techniques can improve the diagnosis and management of conditions such as allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, and cystic fibrosis.
Related Concept Videos
01:28Nitric Oxide Signaling Pathway
Nitric oxide (NO), an inorganic gas, acts as a potent second messenger in most animal and plant tissues. NO diffuses out of the cells that produce it and enters the neighboring cells to generate a downstream response. NO synthase (NOS) catalyzes NO production by the deamination of the amino acid arginine. There are three isoforms of NOS. Endothelial cells have endothelial NOS (eNOS), nerve and muscle cells have neuronal NOS (nNOS), and macrophages produce inducible NOS (iNOS) upon exposure to...
01:20Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-II: Pathophysiology
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) pathophysiology is intricate and multifaceted, involving a complex interplay of physiological processes. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for effectively managing and treating COPD. Here is an in-depth look at the critical elements in the pathophysiology of COPD:
Chronic Inflammation
Chronic Inflammation
01:28Asthma I: Introduction
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways characterized by variable airflow obstruction and heightened bronchial responsiveness to a wide range of triggers. The underlying inflammation leads to airway swelling, mucus hypersecretion, and smooth muscle constriction, all of which narrow the airway lumen and impede airflow. Clinically, asthma presents with recurrent episodes of wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing, symptoms that typically vary in intensity and...
01:17Drugs Used in Lower Respiratory Disorders: Overview
Lower respiratory tract disorders present challenges that often require skilled and nuanced approaches for effective management. Common ailments, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), have prompted the development of intricate treatment strategies involving bronchodilators and anti-inflammatory drugs, each tailored to ease breathing and revitalize the lungs.
Bronchodilators, the first step of respiration enhancement, come in various forms, each with its own mechanism...
Bronchodilators, the first step of respiration enhancement, come in various forms, each with its own mechanism...
01:16Drugs Used in Upper Respiratory Disorders: Overview
Upper respiratory tract disorders, including viral infections and allergic rhinitis, cause significant discomfort and disrupt daily life. Managing these conditions involves a variety of drugs, such as antihistamines, intranasal steroids, decongestants, antitussives, expectorants, and mucolytics. Specific examples of drugs in each category are provided.
Antihistamines (e.g., Benadryl) block histamines from binding. Histamines are chemicals released during an allergic reaction in the body. As a...
Antihistamines (e.g., Benadryl) block histamines from binding. Histamines are chemicals released during an allergic reaction in the body. As a...
01:24Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease III: Chronic Bronchitis Features
Chronic bronchitis is a key phenotype of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), characterized by airway-centered inflammation and mucus overproduction. It develops from long-term exposure to harmful particles or gases, most commonly cigarette smoke, which triggers a persistent inflammatory response.Cellular and Structural ChangesInflammation initially affects the large bronchi and later the smaller airways, with infiltration by immune cells, including neutrophils, macrophages, and...