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Updated: Jun 5, 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
The early role of nitric oxide in evolution
1Martin Feelisch is at the Dept of Nitric Oxide Research, Schwarz Pharma AG, Alfred Nobel Str. 10, D-40789 Monheim, Germany.
Trends in Ecology & Evolution
|January 18, 2011
Summary
Nitric oxide (NO) likely protected early life from toxic ozone. This defense mechanism evolved into vital cellular functions, originating from prokaryotic processes like nitrification or denitrification.
Area of Science:
- Evolutionary biology
- Biochemistry
- Astrobiology
Background:
- Rising atmospheric ozone (O3) levels posed a threat to early life following oxygen (O2) development.
- Primitive microorganisms required defense mechanisms against oxidative stress.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the potential role of nitric oxide (NO) as a protective agent in early life.
- To investigate the evolutionary origins of NO production pathways.
Main Methods:
- Hypothetical modeling of early Earth atmospheric conditions.
- Analysis of biochemical pathways for NO synthesis and detoxification.
- Comparative genomics of prokaryotic and eukaryotic NO metabolism.
Main Results:
- Nitric oxide (NO) production likely served as an extracellular defense against toxic ozone (O3).
- NO may have facilitated intracellular control of reactive oxygen species before enzyme evolution.
- The ability to produce NO in mammals may stem from ancient prokaryotic nitrification or denitrification.
Conclusions:
- Nitric oxide (NO) played a crucial role in the early evolution of life, providing protection against oxidative damage.
- The evolution of NO production pathways represents a significant adaptation for survival and diversification.
- Understanding NO's origins sheds light on fundamental biological processes and their evolutionary trajectory.
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