Nitrite in organ protection

Br J Pharmacol. 2014 Jan;171(1):1-11. doi: 10.1111/bph.12291.

Abstract

In the last decade, the nitrate-nitrite-nitric oxide pathway has emerged to therapeutical importance. Modulation of endogenous nitrate and nitrite levels with the subsequent S-nitros(yl)ation of the downstream signalling cascade open the way for novel cytoprotective strategies. In the following, we summarize the actual literature and give a short overview on the potential of nitrite in organ protection.

Keywords: nitric oxide; nitrite.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cytoprotection
  • Humans
  • Myocardial Reperfusion Injury / metabolism
  • Myocardial Reperfusion Injury / prevention & control
  • Nitrates / metabolism
  • Nitric Oxide / metabolism
  • Nitrites / metabolism
  • Nitrites / pharmacology*
  • Protective Agents / pharmacology*
  • Reperfusion Injury / metabolism
  • Reperfusion Injury / prevention & control*
  • Signal Transduction / drug effects*

Substances

  • Nitrates
  • Nitrites
  • Protective Agents
  • Nitric Oxide