Reactive Nitrogen Species (RNS)

Reactive nitrogen species (RNS) are a family of highly reactive molecules derived primarily from nitric oxide (•NO) and superoxide (O2•−). RNS include both radical and non-radical nitrogen-containing compounds that play significant roles in biological systems. Excessive production leads to nitrosative stress, implicated in cell injury, death, and impaired fertility. Compounds that modulate the formation or removal of RNS—or protect against their damaging effects—are under investigation for treating diseases associated with nitrosative/oxidative stress.

Other names

Nitric oxideNitrogen dioxide radicalPeroxynitrite anionNitroxyl anionNitrosonium cationHigher oxides of nitrogenS-nitrosothiolsDinitrosyl iron complexes

Modulation of RNS formation or removal; Protection against RNS-induced damage