31] Nitric oxide donor generation from reactions of peroxynitrite

Abstract

Publisher Summary This chapter describes the methodology for the formation of nitric oxide (NO) donors via the reaction of peroxynitrite (ONOO - ) with glucose and other cellular metabolites. The formation of stable NO donors from reactions of ONOO - with glycerol, glucose, or thiol is not species specific because these compounds are physiologically active in arteries of different species. These NO donors produce a slowly developing and sustained decrease in tension consistent with the time required for the metabolic conversion of the NO donor to an NO - releasing metabolite. In vitro , NO donors are formed from the reaction of ONOO - with plasma and induce vascular relaxation and inhibit platelet aggregation, through a mechanism that is inhibited by the NO scavenger oxyhemoglobin (oxyHb). The pathophysiological consequences of the reactions of ONOO - with poly hydroxylated compounds are currently being investigated. In vivo , NO-dependent nitration and nitrosation reactions may be enhanced at sites of inflammation. Current thinking suggests that the increased production of O 2 - , in inflammatory cells, facilitates ONOO - formation and thus leads to the modification of NO reactivity in the blood vessel wall.