The nitric oxide/cyclic GMP pathway: a potential major regulator of cochlear physiology.
The nitric oxide (NO)/cyclic guanosine monophosphate (GMP) pathway is now recognized as a major regulatory system in cell physiology and tissue homeostasis. This pathway may control processes as diverse as muscle relaxation, gut peristalsis, neurotransmission and hormonal secretion. It is also involved in the development and function of sensory systems such as vision and olfaction. This review will detail the NO/cyclic GMP pathway, evaluate studies in the auditory system and discuss its potential participation in cochlear blood flow, supporting cell physiology and excitotoxicity.
Fessenden
J D
JD
Department of Biological Chemistry and Kresge Hearing Research Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor 48109-0506, USA.
Schacht
J
J
D000818:Animals; D003051:Cochlea / Q000098:blood supply / Q000201:enzymology / Q000502:physiology*; D006152:Cyclic GMP / Q000378:metabolism*; D004790:Enzyme Induction / Q000502:physiology; D006198:Hair Cells, Auditory / Q000502:physiology; D006706:Homeostasis / Q000502:physiology; D007150:Immunohistochemistry; D009474:Neurons / Q000201:enzymology; D009569:Nitric Oxide / Q000378:metabolism*; D019001:Nitric Oxide Synthase / Q000096:biosynthesis*; D018408:Patch-Clamp Techniques
D009569:Nitric Oxide; D019001:Nitric Oxide Synthase; D006152:Cyclic GMP