Nitric+Oxide+(NO)

=Other Names= Nitrogen Monoxoide (NO)

=Generalties= Nitric Oxide is an endogenous molecule released from endothelial cells, macrophages, liver cells and neurons. It is synthesized from L-arginine and oxygen by a group of enzymes called NO synthase (NOS), which are hemoproteins. The catalyst of oxidation is therefore heme iron.

=Properties and Modes of Action= Action occurs through 2 main channels -production of intra-cellular cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) from guanosine triphosphate (GTP) -Formation of cytotoxic peroxynitrites

Functions: -Used by the endothelium of blood vessels to relax its tunic of smooth muscle, causing vasodilation, increase in blood flow and decrease in blood platelet aggregation (thrombocytes) -Produced by macrophages and immune system cells to eliminate pathogenic bacteria. -Acts as a neurotransmitter between nervous cells. Unlike most neurotransmitters small NO molecules diffuse widely and can reach many surrounding neurons, this process is thought to be linked to its role in memory. -Responsible for the relaxation of the smooth muscles in the gastro-intestinal apparatus. Particularly increases the ability of the stomach to store food liquid. -In the presence of an inceased level of superoxide ion O2-, NO allows the formation of peroxynitrite ions.

=Therapeutic Indications= An inhaled vasodilator. This causes vasodilation of capillaries in well-ventilated pulmonary zones. -Reduces hypertension -Increases oxygenation of the blood -Impotence

=Side Effects= Excessive production of NO by macrophages leads to massive vasodilation, which is the main cause of hypotension that occurs w/ septic shock.

=Natural Products That Promote Release of NO= -Arginine -Ginko Biloba -Muira Puama -Niacin -Suma (pfaffia p.) -Resveratrol -Vinpocetine