Nitric oxide as a mediator of gastrointestinal mucosal injury? - Say it ain't so
1995
Nitric Oxide and Gastrointestinal Mucosal Defence
publication
Evidence: high
Author Information
Author(s): Paul Kubes, John L. Wallace
Primary Institution: University of Calgary
Hypothesis
Does nitric oxide play a primarily damaging role in gastrointestinal injury?
Conclusion
Nitric oxide is a critical mediator of gastrointestinal mucosal defence and does not cause detectable damage to the mucosa or vasculature.
Supporting Evidence
- Nitric oxide is produced by various cells in the gastrointestinal tract.
- Nitric oxide donors have been shown to protect the gastric mucosa from damage.
- Inhibition of nitric oxide synthesis leads to increased susceptibility to gastrointestinal injury.
- Nitric oxide plays a role in modulating mucosal blood flow and immune responses.
- Large amounts of nitric oxide do not cause detectable damage to the mucosa.
Takeaway
Nitric oxide helps protect the stomach and intestines from injury, and having too much of it doesn't necessarily hurt the gut.
Methodology
The review summarizes various studies on the role of nitric oxide in gastrointestinal mucosal defence and injury.
Limitations
The review does not provide new experimental data but rather discusses existing literature.
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