(NaturesPupil) Nitric oxide (NO) was proclaimed “Molecule of the Year” in 1992, and research discoveries related to its role in cardiovascular physiology led to a Nobel Prize in Physiology and Medicine for three US scientists in 1998.

Nitric oxide is a gas molecule produced by cells throughout the body. An enzyme known as nitric oxide synthase converts the amino acid L-arginine into NO. This short-lived gas acts as a messenger, regulating many important biological processes including vascular function. Proper vascular function is crucial for overall cardiovascular health.

The primary effect of nitric oxide at the endothelium, or inner lining of blood vessels, is to produce vasodilation. Widening of the blood vessels allows for increased blood flow and reduced blood pressure. Other vascular actions of nitric oxide include an anti-inflammatory effect, prevention of excess smooth muscle cell multiplication, and an ability to inhibit platelets from “sticking” to the endothelium.

Many medical conditions and other risk factors for heart disease are associated with diminished release of NO into the arterial wall, either because of impaired synthesis or excessive oxidative degradation. These include obesity, hypertension, high cholesterol, atherosclerosis, heart failure, diabetes, sedentary lifestyle and cigarette smoking.

The good news is that the above conditions are largely preventable, and can even be reversed, with a healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise and proper nutrition can restore endothelial health. Exercise stimulates the production of NO in arterial walls. A nutritious diet that includes plenty of vegetables, fruits, nuts and whole grains will provide an abundant supply of antioxidants, which can protect against nitric oxide breakdown. Additionally, specific foods or supplements that contain L-arginine may provide some benefit by supplying the precursor to NO.

Sources:

Wu, G.; et al. (August 2004). “Arginine deficiency in preterm infants: biochemical mechanisms and nutritional implications” Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry 15(8): 332–451.

Tapiero, H.;et al. (November 2002). “L-Arginine” Biomedicine and Pharmacotherapy. 56(9): 439–445.

Klabunde, Richard E. Cardiovascular Physiology Concepts. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2004.

Richard O. Cannon, III. “Role of nitric oxide in cardiovascular disease: focus on the endothelium.” Clinical Chemistry 44: 1809-1819, 1998.