Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 26, 2026

Chemiluminescence-based Assays for Detection of Nitric Oxide and its Derivatives from Autoxidation and Nitrosated Compounds
Published on: February 16, 2022
Routes for formation of S-nitrosothiols in blood
Enika Nagababu1, Joseph M Rifkind
1Molecular Dynamics Section, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd, Rm No. 5B131, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA, enikan@mail.nih.gov.
Abstract:
S-nitrosothiols (RSNO) are involved in post-translational modifications of many proteins analogous to protein phosphorylation. In addition, RSNO have many physiological roles similar to nitric oxide ((•)NO), which are presumably involving the release of (•)NO from the RSNO. However, the much longer life span in biological systems for RSNO than (•)NO suggests a dominant role for RSNO in mediating (•)NO bioactivity. RSNO are detected in plasma in low nanomolar levels in healthy human subjects. These RSNO are believed to be redirecting the (•)NO to the vasculature. However, the mechanism for the formation of RSNO in vivo has not been established. We have reviewed the reactions of (•)NO with oxygen, metalloproteins, and free radicals that can lead to the formation of RSNO and have evaluated the potential for each mechanism to provide a source for RSNO in vivo.
Related Concept Videos
Preparation and Reactions of Thiols
2° Amines to N-Nitrosamines: Reaction with NaNO2
Sulfur Assimilation
Nitric Oxide Signaling Pathway
Phase II Reactions: Glutathione Conjugation and Mercapturic Acid Formation
Several distinctive characteristics distinguish glutathione conjugation from other phase II...
Bioactivation and Tissue Toxicity

