Life Sciences & Medical Applications
Critical Care:
Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension of the Newborn (PPHN): The classic and most critical medical use of inhaled NO. Inhaled nitric oxide selectively dilates pulmonary vessels, effectively lowering pulmonary artery pressure and improving oxygenation, making it essential for treating full-term and near-term critically ill neonates.Physiological Function & Drug Development:
Cardiovascular System: Endogenous NO acts as a vasodilator, regulating blood pressure and preventing thrombosis.
Nervous System: Functions as a neurotransmitter, participating in learning and memory processes.
Immune System: Immune cells (e.g., macrophages) utilize NO to kill bacteria and tumor cells.
Drug Derivatives: NO-related mechanisms have led to drugs such as Viagra, which target downstream pathways of NO signaling.
