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Updated: Feb 13, 2026
11:28
Analytical Techniques for Assaying Nitric Oxide Bioactivity
Published on: June 18, 2012
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Nitric Oxide Synthase (NOS) Isoform Expression after Peripheral Nerve Transection in Mice
Ryuta Kikuchi1, Kimiharu Ambe2, Hideki Kon3
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Ohu University, Graduate School of Dentistry.
The Bulletin of Tokyo Dental College
|March 23, 2018
Summary
Nitric oxide synthase (NOS) plays a key role in mouse sciatic nerve regeneration. This study found NOS involved in Schwann cell proliferation and axon regrowth after nerve injury.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Nitric oxide (NO) and its producing enzyme, nitric oxide synthase (NOS), are implicated in cellular functions, including nerve cell death and neurodegenerative diseases.
- Understanding NOS function is crucial for nerve injury research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the expression and function of NOS in the degeneration and regeneration of transected mouse sciatic nerve using immunohistochemistry.
- To clarify the role of NO in nerve repair processes.
Main Methods:
- Immunohistochemical analysis of NOS expression in mouse sciatic nerve stumps at various time points post-transection.
- Observation of neuronal NOS (nNOS), inducible NOS (iNOS), and endothelial NOS (eNOS) in Schwann cells, axons, and inflammatory cells.
Main Results:
- nNOS-positive Schwann cells increased initially post-transection, then decreased, while nNOS appeared in regenerating axons.
- iNOS was present in inflammatory cells early after injury, diminishing by day 7.
- eNOS was detected in blood vessels by day 7, with subsequent decrease.
Conclusions:
- NO, via NOS, appears to be involved in early-stage Schwann cell proliferation and migration.
- NO also plays a role in promoting axon regeneration following sciatic nerve transection.
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