INTRODUCTION:
Nitric oxide is a gas with the molecular formula NO. You have
probably heard of it as a component of air pollution and cigarette
smoke, but it is synthesized by several human tissues, and this
deceptively simple molecule has important functions. Nitric oxide is
produced by the endothelium (lining) of blood vessels and promotes
vasodilation of arterioles, permitting greater blood flow and oxygen
delivery to tissues. It is involved in nerve impulse transmission in
the brain, and may contribute to memory storage. Some immune system
cells produce nitric oxide as a cytotoxic (cell-poisoning) agent to
help destroy foreign cells such as bacteria.
CLINICAL
APPLICATIONS: Nitric oxide is also being used therapeutically in
clinical trials. It has been found useful in the treatment of
pulmonary hypertension to relax abnormally constricted arteries in
the lungs to permit normal gas exchange. Other studies show that
nitric oxide helps some premature babies breathe more easily and
efficiently. Much more research is needed, including a determination
of possible harmful side effects of greater than normal amounts of
nitric oxide, but the results of some clinical trials thus far are
promising.
RELATED;
1.
OXYGEN
2.
CARBON DIOXIDE
3. BIOCHEMISTRY
REFERENCES
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