Role of nitric oxide in progression and regression of atherosclerosis.
Endothelium-derived nitric oxide is a potent endogenous vasodilator that is derived from the metabolism of L-arginine. This endothelial factor inhibits circulating blood elements from interacting with the vessel wall. Platelet adherence and aggregation as well as monocyte adherence and infiltration are opposed by this paracrine substance. By virtue of these characteristics, endothelium-derived nitric oxide inhibits atherogenesis in animal models and may even induce regression.
Cooke
J P
JP
Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, CA 94305-5246, USA.
D000818:Animals; D001161:Arteriosclerosis / Q000503:physiopathology*; D006801:Humans; D009000:Monocytes / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology; D009131:Muscle, Smooth, Vascular / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology; D009569:Nitric Oxide / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000502:physiology*; D010974:Platelet Aggregation / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology; D010975:Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors / Q000494:pharmacology; D011817:Rabbits
D010975:Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors; D009569:Nitric Oxide