Design of selective neuronal nitric oxide synthase inhibitors for the prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.

ABSTRACT: Nitric oxide (NO), which is produced from L-arginine by the nitric oxide synthase (NOS) family of enzymes, is an important second-messenger molecule that regulates several physiological functions. In endothelial cells, it relaxes smooth muscle, which decreases blood pressure. Macrophage cells produce NO as an immune defense system to destroy pathogens and microorganisms. In neuronal cells, NO controls the release of neurotransmitters and is involved in synaptogenesis, synaptic plasticity, memory function, and neuroendocrine secretion. NO is a free radical that is commonly thought to contribute to oxidative damage and molecule and tissue destruction, and thus it is somewhat surprising that it has so many significant beneficial physiological effects. However, the cell is generally protected

SUBMITTER: Silverman RB 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2765506 | biostudies-literature | 2009 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature