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Analytical Techniques for Assaying Nitric Oxide Bioactivity
Published on: June 18, 2012
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Trimethylamine N-oxide: breathe new life
Saravanan Subramaniam1,2, Craig Fletcher1,2
1Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
British Journal of Pharmacology
|July 27, 2017
Summary
Elevated levels of trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) are linked to cardiovascular disease risk. This review covers TMAO
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Cardiovascular Science
- Microbiome Research
Background:
- Systemic trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) is increasingly implicated in cardiovascular disease pathogenesis.
- TMAO is derived from gut bacterial metabolism of dietary components like choline and L-carnitine.
- Flavin-containing monooxygenase-3 is the primary enzyme responsible for TMAO production in the liver.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the biosynthesis of TMAO.
- To discuss clinical studies evaluating TMAO as a biomarker for cardiovascular and other diseases.
- To summarize interactions affecting TMAO levels.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of experimental and clinical studies.
- Analysis of TMAO biosynthesis pathways.
- Examination of TMAO's role in various disease states.
Main Results:
- Growing evidence links elevated TMAO to adverse cardiovascular events.
- TMAO is explored as a biomarker for kidney failure, thrombosis, atherosclerosis, obesity, diabetes, and cancer.
- Interactions with various molecules influence circulating TMAO levels.
Conclusions:
- TMAO is a significant factor in cardiovascular disease development.
- TMAO serves as a potential biomarker across multiple disease categories.
- Further research into TMAO modulation is warranted.
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