Nitric oxide signaling and redox systems (NO/Redox signaling)

Nitric oxide (NO) signaling and redox systems comprise a fundamental regulatory network that maintains cellular and physiological homeostasis through the production and interaction of reactive nitrogen and oxygen species. Nitric oxide, synthesized by nitric oxide synthases (NOS), serves as a critical signaling molecule that mediates vasodilation, neurotransmission, and immune modulation, primarily through the activation of soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) and the subsequent generation of cyclic GMP (cGMP) [1][2]. Redox systems, including enzymes like superoxide dismutase and small molecules like glutathione, work in tandem to manage reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, preventing oxidative damage to proteins, lipids, and DNA [3]. The interplay between NO and ROS is pivotal; for instance, the reaction of NO with superoxide produces peroxynitrite, a potent oxidant that can lead to nitrosative stress and cellular dysfunction [4]. Dysregulation of these systems is implicated in a wide array of conditions, including hypertension, atherosclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, and diabetes [5]. Therapeutic strategies often focus on enhancing NO bioavailability or bolstering antioxidant defenses to mitigate the progression of these diseases [6]. Drugs such as organic nitrates, sGC stimulators, and PDE5 inhibitors are commonly used to manipulate this pathway for cardiovascular and urological benefits [1][5].

Other names

Nitric oxide signaling pathwayRedox homeostasisNO-ROS crosstalkNitrosative and oxidative stress systems

Modulation of nitric oxide levels via donors or synthase regulation, activation of soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC), inhibition of phosphodiesterases (PDEs), and neutralization of reactive oxygen species (ROS) through antioxidant supplementation or enzymatic induction [1][5][6].