Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 30, 2026

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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
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Nitric oxide signalling and antidepressant action revisited
Samia R L Joca1,2, Ariandra G Sartim1, Aline L Roncalho1
1School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto (FCFRP), University of Sao Paulo (USP), Sao Paulo, Brazil.
Cell and Tissue Research
|January 17, 2019
Summary
This review explores nitric oxide (NO) system
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Mood disorders involve complex genetic and environmental factors affecting neurobiology.
- Current monoamine-based depression treatments show limited efficacy.
- Dysfunctional neuroplasticity and homeostasis are implicated in mood disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of the nitric oxide (NO) system in depression.
- To identify NO-related targets for novel antidepressant pharmacotherapy.
- To link NO-governed neuroplasticity to antidepressant mechanisms.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on NO and mood disorders.
- Analysis of NO's physiological functions in the central nervous system.
- Exploration of NO pathways as potential therapeutic targets.
Main Results:
- Nitric oxide (NO) acts as a key neurotransmitter influencing CNS functions.
- The NO system is implicated in the pathogenesis of mood disorders.
- NO influences neuroplasticity mechanisms relevant to depression.
Conclusions:
- The NO system presents promising therapeutic targets for depression.
- Understanding NO's role in neuroplasticity may reveal novel antidepressant strategies.
- Further research into NO pathways could advance depression pharmacotherapy.
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