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Updated: Jun 22, 2026
08:32
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 in cell survival: a janus molecule
Vittorio Calabrese1, Carolin Cornelius, Enrico Rizzarelli
1Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Section, Faculty of Medicine, University of Catania , Catania, Italy. calabres@unict.it
Antioxidants & Redox Signaling
|June 30, 2009
Summary
Nitric oxide (NO) has dual roles in the nervous system, acting as both a protector and a toxin. Understanding its complex effects is crucial for neuroprotection and treating neurodegenerative diseases.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Molecular Biology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Nitric oxide (NO) is a signaling molecule with diverse functions in the nervous system, including neuronal development, synaptic plasticity, and memory.
- NO and other reactive nitrogen species (RNS) are implicated in neuroinflammation and neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the dual cytotoxic and cytoprotective effects of nitric oxide in the central nervous system.
- To discuss the role of NO in redox signaling and cellular stress responses.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on nitric oxide's role in the nervous system.
- Analysis of NO's involvement in neuronal survival, differentiation, synaptic function, and neurodegeneration.
- Examination of molecular mechanisms, including S-nitrosylation, S-oxidation, and lipid nitration.
Main Results:
- Nitric oxide promotes neuronal survival and differentiation but can also mediate neurotoxicity.
- Neurons exhibit particular vulnerability to nitrosative stress compared to astrocytes.
- Cellular susceptibility to NO is influenced by factors like glutathione levels and stress resistance pathways.
Conclusions:
- Nitric oxide exhibits Janus-faced properties, acting as both a protector and a potential neurotoxin in the central nervous system.
- Further research into NO's role in redox signaling and stress responses is vital for understanding and treating neurological disorders.
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