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Protective role of endothelial nitric oxide synthase
Author(s) -
Albrecht Ester WJA,
Stegeman Coen A,
Heeringa Peter,
Henning Rob H,
van Goor Harry
Publication year - 2003
Publication title -
the journal of pathology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.964
H-Index - 184
eISSN - 1096-9896
pISSN - 0022-3417
DOI - 10.1002/path.1250
Subject(s) - enos , nitric oxide , nitric oxide synthase , knockout mouse , endothelial nitric oxide synthase , endothelial nos , nitric oxide synthase type iii , pharmacology , endothelium , chemistry , medicine , biochemistry , receptor
Nitric oxide is a versatile molecule, with its actions ranging from haemodynamic regulation to anti‐proliferative effects on vascular smooth muscle cells. Nitric oxide is produced by the nitric oxide synthases, endothelial NOS (eNOS), neural NOS (nNOS), and inducible NOS (iNOS). Constitutively expressed eNOS produces low concentrations of NO, which is necessary for a good endothelial function and integrity. Endothelial derived NO is often seen as a protective agent in a variety of diseases. This review will focus on the potential protective role of eNOS. We will discuss recent data derived from studies in eNOS knockout mice and other experimental models. Furthermore, the role of eNOS in human diseases is described and possible therapeutic intervention strategies will be discussed. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.