In 1998, the Nobel Prize for Medicine or Physiology acknowledged the work of Furchgott, Murad, and Ignarro characterizing this simple molecule containing 1 oxygen atom and 1 nitrogen atom. (1) This molecule appears everywhere in the plant and animal kingdoms. Called a neurotransmitter, the activity of NO is diverse and complicated.
The discovery of NO relied on its activity in the cells lining the blood vessels. NO relaxed the blood vessels. NO deficiency could account for elevated blood pressure and supporting NO production can decrease blood pressure. Recall that the drug nitroglycerin was used to treat angina (a constricting pain in the heart area.) Research has revealed that nitroglycerin increased NO and thus served to relax the blood vessels serving the heart and relieved the pain. With increased blood flow, oxygen delivery to tissues improved. (2)
A key component of healthy sexual function depends on the relaxation of blood vessels. Drugs developed to improve erectile function rely on the increased activity of NO. (3) This relaxation of blood vessels is critical to both male and female orgasm. NO impacts the endocrine system in significant ways. eth Shirley documents the relationship between hormones and NO. (4)
