Nitric oxide

Nitric oxide (NO) is a naturally occurring compound that plays a critical role in the body's cardiovascular system. Produced by the endothelium, the thin layer of cells lining the interior of blood vessels, nitric oxide has a range of biological actions that maintain vascular health. It is also referred to as endothelium-derived relaxing factor (EDRF).

Nitric oxide 2D

Biochemistry of Nitric Oxide

Nitric oxide is a small, diffusible, and highly reactive molecule with an unpaired electron that can participate in various biological reactions. It is synthesized from the amino acid L-arginine by the enzyme nitric oxide synthase (NOS), which exists in three forms: neuronal NOS (nNOS), inducible NOS (iNOS), and endothelial NOS (eNOS).

Role in Vascular Health

The primary role of nitric oxide in the body is to facilitate vasodilation, or the widening of blood vessels. Nitric oxide achieves this by relaxing the smooth muscle cells that line the blood vessels, reducing vascular resistance and promoting increased blood flow. This function is fundamental to maintaining healthy blood pressure levels and overall cardiovascular health.

Other Biological Roles

Beyond its vasodilatory effects, nitric oxide has several other roles within the body. It participates in immune responses, neurotransmission, and cellular function regulation. It also has a role in platelet aggregation and adhesion, contributing to the prevention of thrombosis.

Clinical Significance

Impaired production or availability of nitric oxide is linked to various cardiovascular diseases, such as hypertension, coronary artery disease, and stroke. Therefore, strategies to enhance nitric oxide bioavailability or reduce its breakdown could have therapeutic benefits.

See also

• Vasodilation
• Endothelium
• Cardiovascular system
• Blood vessels

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