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Keywords = l-arginine nitric oxide pathway

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17 pages, 808 KB  
Review
Methylarginine Levels in Chronic Inflammatory Skin Diseases—The Role of L-Arginine/Nitric Oxide Pathway
by Clara Matei, Mircea Tampa, Madalina Irina Mitran, Cristina Iulia Mitran, Ilinca Nicolae, Corina Daniela Ene, Andrei Marin, Ecaterina Rinja, Adrian Dumitru, Constantin Caruntu, Carolina Constantin, Monica Neagu and Simona Roxana Georgescu
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(22), 7934; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14227934 - 8 Nov 2025
Viewed by 351
Abstract
In recent years, the L-arginine/nitric oxide (NO) pathway has garnered increasing attention across a range of pathological conditions, including skin diseases. NO is an important modulator of skin homeostasis, being actively involved in numerous processes such as vasodilation, keratinocyte proliferation, melanogenesis and cell [...] Read more.
In recent years, the L-arginine/nitric oxide (NO) pathway has garnered increasing attention across a range of pathological conditions, including skin diseases. NO is an important modulator of skin homeostasis, being actively involved in numerous processes such as vasodilation, keratinocyte proliferation, melanogenesis and cell signaling. Under inflammatory conditions, post-translational changes in L-arginine take place, resulting in the synthesis of methylarginines including monomethylarginine (MMA), asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), and symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA). Once ADMA and MMA are generated, they compete with L-arginine to bind to the active site of NO synthase, which reduces the production of NO. Additionally, SDMA inhibits the transport of L-arginine, leading to a lower concentration of this amino acid within cells. Consequently, by impacting both the availability of L-arginine and the production of NO, conditions favoring oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction are created. Dysregulation of L-arginine/NO pathway is closely related to inflammation and oxidative stress, two events that play a cardinal role in the pathogenesis of chronic inflammatory skin diseases. We conducted a narrative review that synthesizes current evidence on methylarginine levels in patients with chronic inflammatory skin diseases. Our aim was to enhance our knowledge about the role of these compounds in pathogenesis and provide new insights into the mechanisms underlying these conditions that can be the basis for novel diagnostic biomarkers and therapies. Full article
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23 pages, 3909 KB  
Article
Role of Nitric Oxide in the Antidepressant Effect of an Aqueous Extract of Punica granatum L.: Effects on GSH/GSSG Ratio and Lipoperoxidation in Adult Male Swiss Webster Mice
by Nancy Cervantes-Anaya, Alexandere Aedo-Torrado, Erika Estrada-Camarena, Verónica Pérez de la Cruz, Daniela Ramírez Ortega, María Eva González-Trujano and Carolina López-Rubalcava
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(21), 10255; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms262110255 - 22 Oct 2025
Viewed by 241
Abstract
Depression is a prevalent psychiatric disorder in which oxidative stress and nitric oxide (NO) signaling have been implicated. Natural compounds such as Punica granatum have shown potential antidepressant effects, but their mechanisms remain unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the antidepressant-like effects of [...] Read more.
Depression is a prevalent psychiatric disorder in which oxidative stress and nitric oxide (NO) signaling have been implicated. Natural compounds such as Punica granatum have shown potential antidepressant effects, but their mechanisms remain unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the antidepressant-like effects of an aqueous extract of P. granatum in male Swiss Webster mice and to explore the possible involvement of NO-related system. Acute administration of P. granatum (0.25–2 mg/kg, i.p.) was tested in the forced swim and tail suspension tests. The interaction with NO signaling was examined through co-administration with an NO donor (sodium nitroprusside, SNP) and NOS inhibitors (NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester, L-NAME and 7-nitroindazole, 7-NI). Biochemical markers of oxidative stress (lipid peroxidation and GSH/GSSG ratio) were also assessed. P. granatum significantly reduced immobility and increased swimming behavior, consistent with an antidepressant-like effect. SNP, L-NAME, and 7-NI induced pro-depressant effects, which were prevented by P. granatum co-administration. Treatment also attenuated oxidative stress markers in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. These findings suggest that the antidepressant-like effects of P. granatum may involve interactions with NO signaling, although this interpretation remains indirect, as specific NO pathway indices were not measured. Acute P. granatum administration exerts antidepressant-like and antioxidant effects in male mice. The results support its potential as a natural candidate for depression treatment, particularly in conditions associated with oxidative imbalance and possible NO dysregulation. Future studies should confirm these mechanisms using direct molecular assessments and include female cohorts. Full article
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25 pages, 6158 KB  
Article
Hydrogen Sulfide and Nitric Oxide Improve Renal Function and α-Adrenergic Responsiveness in Rats with Left Ventricular Hypertrophy
by Tabinda Fatima, Latifah Al Shammari, Mohamed Ibrahim Lazhari, Waad Alrohily, Tan Yong Chia, Nimer Alsabeelah, Eid Fahad Alanazi, Khalid Abdulrahman Almutairi, Sultan Mujahid Alhabradi, Naif Saleh Alharbi and Ashfaq Ahmad
Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2025, 47(10), 848; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb47100848 - 15 Oct 2025
Viewed by 427
Abstract
In left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), the combined external administration of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and nitric oxide (NO) has been shown to reverse LVH by activating the endothelial nitric oxide synthase pathway (eNOS/NO), independent of the cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE/H2S) pathway. [...] Read more.
In left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), the combined external administration of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and nitric oxide (NO) has been shown to reverse LVH by activating the endothelial nitric oxide synthase pathway (eNOS/NO), independent of the cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE/H2S) pathway. Individually, both H2S and NO have also been reported to significantly improve RCBP, restore renal excretory performance, and enhance α-adrenergic receptor responsiveness in rats. The induction of LVH was performed over a period of two weeks using drinking water with caffeine and isoprenaline. Five weeks later, the rats were fed with L-arginine (1.25 g/L) as a nitrogen oxide donor. Vascular reactions to methoxamine, phenylephrine, and noradrenaline were assessed in presences and absence of 5-methylurapidil (5-MeU), BMY7378, and chloroethylclonidine (CeC) and α1-adrenoceptor antagonists. In both the Control WKY and LVH-WKY groups, combined H2S+NO therapy significantly (p < 0.05) upregulated the renal mRNA of CSE and eNOS when compared with untreated LVH rats. The treatment also markedly increased RCBP in LVH-H2S+NO rats relative to LVH controls. Furthermore, H2S+NO administration enhanced the activity of α1A, α1B, and α1D adrenergic receptors in mediating renal vasoconstriction. Even under receptor blockade with high doses (HDs) of 5-MeU, CeC, and BMY 7378, renal vasoconstriction responses to adrenergic agonists like NA, PE, and ME in the LVH-H2S+NO group remained comparable to those observed in the counterpart Control-H2S+NO group. The findings of current study suggest that simultaneous exogenous administration of H2S and NO donors improve renal cortical blood flow, support renal function, and augment α1A, α1B, and α1D adrenergic receptor responsiveness to adrenergic agonists like NA, PE, and ME in LVH rats. This effect appears to rely primarily on the eNOS/NO pathway, with partial contribution from the CSE/H2S pathway. Full article
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17 pages, 1131 KB  
Article
Dose–Response Effect of Watermelon Consumption on Ambulatory Blood Pressure in Adults with Elevated Blood Pressure: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial
by Kanishka Singh, Huiling Liao, Indika Edirisinghe, Britt Burton-Freeman and Amandeep K. Sandhu
Nutrients 2025, 17(19), 3073; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17193073 - 26 Sep 2025
Viewed by 1393
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) is a natural dietary source of L-citrulline and L-arginine, the two amino acids involved in nitric oxide (NO) production and vasodilation. Pre-clinical and clinical studies using isolated amino acids or watermelon extracts suggest blood pressure (BP)-lowering [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) is a natural dietary source of L-citrulline and L-arginine, the two amino acids involved in nitric oxide (NO) production and vasodilation. Pre-clinical and clinical studies using isolated amino acids or watermelon extracts suggest blood pressure (BP)-lowering potential; however, limited research has been conducted on the impact of watermelon flesh (WM) on BP in adults at risk for hypertension. Therefore, the primary objective of this study was to assess the effect of daily WM intake for four weeks on 24 h ambulatory BP in adults with elevated blood pressure. The secondary outcomes of this study include changes in glucose and insulin markers, lipid profile, NO, L-citrulline, L-arginine, asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) concentrations, and the L-arginine/ADMA ratio. Methods: In this randomized, placebo controlled parallel study design, 39 adults (age: 41 ± 14 years, BMI: 31 ± 6 kg/m2, mean ± SD) with elevated BP were randomly assigned to one of three groups for a 4-week intervention: control (0 g WM), WM-1 cup (152 g/day), or WM-2 cups (304 g/day). Ambulatory BP was measured over 24 h at baseline and the end of the intervention period. Fasting plasma samples were analyzed for metabolic biomarkers on a clinical analyzer and NO using a colorimetric assay. L-citrulline, L-arginine, and ADMA were analyzed using an ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography triple quadrupole mass spectrometer (UHPLC-QQQ-MS/MS). Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS software (IBM SPSS Statistics, Version 29.0.0). Results: After 4 weeks, mean 24 h ambulatory BP was 130.2 ± 3.9 mm Hg (control), 130 ± 3.2 mm Hg (WM-1 cup), and 124.9 ± 3.9 mm Hg (WM-2 cups), with no statistically significant differences between study interventions (p > 0.05). Similarly, no significant changes were observed in fasting plasma glucose, insulin, lipid profile, or NO concentrations. However, plasma L-arginine concentrations and L-arginine/ADMA ratios significantly increased in the WM groups compared to the control (p = 0.009) after adjusting for age, BMI, race, and gender in the statistical model. Conclusion: Overall, BP was not significantly different after two different doses of watermelon compared to control; however, improvements in NO synthesis pathway precursors (L-arginine, ADMA) suggest potential for dietary modulation to support endothelial function and BP regulation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Nutrition)
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20 pages, 2283 KB  
Article
Functional and Genomic Evidence of L-Arginine-Dependent Bacterial Nitric Oxide Synthase Activity in Paenibacillus nitricinens sp. nov.
by Diego Saavedra-Tralma, Alexis Gaete, Carolina Merino-Guzmán, Maribel Parada-Ibáñez, Francisco Nájera-de Ferrari and Ignacio Jofré-Fernández
Biology 2025, 14(6), 733; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14060733 - 19 Jun 2025
Viewed by 1090
Abstract
Although nitric oxide (NO) production in bacteria has traditionally been associated with denitrification or stress responses in model or symbiotic organisms, functionally validated L-arginine-dependent nitric oxide synthase (bNOS) activity has not been documented in free-living, non-denitrifying soil bacteria. This paper reports Paenibacillus nitricinens [...] Read more.
Although nitric oxide (NO) production in bacteria has traditionally been associated with denitrification or stress responses in model or symbiotic organisms, functionally validated L-arginine-dependent nitric oxide synthase (bNOS) activity has not been documented in free-living, non-denitrifying soil bacteria. This paper reports Paenibacillus nitricinens sp. nov., a bacterium isolated from rainforest soil capable of synthesizing NO via a bNOS under aerobic conditions. A bnos-specific PCR confirmed gene presence, while whole-genome sequencing (6.7 Mb, 43.79% GC) revealed two nitrogen metabolism pathways, including a bnos-like gene. dDDH (<70%) and ANI (<95%) values with related Paenibacillus strains support the delineation of this isolate as a distinct species. Extracellular and intracellular NO measurements under aerobic conditions showed a dose-dependent response, with detectable production at 0.1 µM L-arginine and saturation at 100 µM. The addition of L-NAME reduced NO formation, confirming enzymatic mediation. The genomic identification of a bnos-like gene strongly supports the presence of a functional pathway. The absence of canonical nitric oxide reductase (Nor) genes or other typical denitrification-related enzymes reinforces that NO production arises from an alternative, intracellular enzymatic mechanism rather than classical denitrification. Consequently, P. nitricinens expands the known repertoire of microbial NO synthesis and suggests a previously overlooked source of NO flux in well-aerated soils. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Microbiology)
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52 pages, 1239 KB  
Review
Molecular and Biochemical Mechanisms of Cardiomyopathy Development Following Prenatal Hypoxia—Focus on the NO System
by Olena Popazova, Igor Belenichev, Nina Bukhtiyarova, Victor Ryzhenko, Nadia Gorchakova, Valentyn Oksenych and Oleksandr Kamyshnyi
Antioxidants 2025, 14(6), 743; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14060743 - 16 Jun 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1835
Abstract
Prenatal hypoxia (PH) adversely affects the development of the fetal heart, contributing to persistent cardiovascular impairments in postnatal life. A key component in regulating cardiac physiology is the nitric oxide (NO) system, which influences vascular tone, myocardial contractility, and endothelial integrity during development. [...] Read more.
Prenatal hypoxia (PH) adversely affects the development of the fetal heart, contributing to persistent cardiovascular impairments in postnatal life. A key component in regulating cardiac physiology is the nitric oxide (NO) system, which influences vascular tone, myocardial contractility, and endothelial integrity during development. Exposure to PH disrupts NO-related signaling pathways, leading to endothelial dysfunction, mitochondrial damage, and an escalation of oxidative stress—all of which exacerbate cardiac injury and trigger cardiomyocyte apoptosis. The excessive generation of reactive nitrogen species drives nitrosative stress, thereby intensifying inflammatory processes and cellular injury. In addition, the interplay between NO and hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) shapes adaptive responses to PH. NO also modulates the synthesis of heat shock protein 70 (HSP70), a critical factor in cellular defense against stress. This review emphasizes the involvement of NO in cardiovascular injury caused by PH and examines the cardioprotective potential of NO modulators—Angiolin, Thiotriazoline, Mildronate, and L-arginine—as prospective therapeutic agents. These agents reduce oxidative stress, enhance endothelial performance, and alleviate the detrimental effects of PH on the heart, offering potential new strategies to prevent cardiovascular disorders in offspring subjected to prenatal hypoxia. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nitric Oxide and Redox Mechanisms)
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17 pages, 1679 KB  
Article
Peripheral Antinociception Induced by Carvacrol in the Formalin Test Involves the Opioid Receptor-NO-cGMP-K+ Channel Pathway
by Mario I. Ortiz, Raquel Cariño-Cortés, Eduardo Fernández-Martínez, Victor Manuel Muñoz-Pérez, Gilberto Castañeda-Hernández and Martha Patricia González-García
Metabolites 2025, 15(5), 314; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo15050314 - 7 May 2025
Viewed by 851
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Carvacrol is a naturally occurring phenolic monoterpene that is one of the main constituents of the essential oils of oregano (Origanum vulgare) and other herbs. Carvacrol has anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effects. Carvacrol can activate and inhibit several second messengers and [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Carvacrol is a naturally occurring phenolic monoterpene that is one of the main constituents of the essential oils of oregano (Origanum vulgare) and other herbs. Carvacrol has anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effects. Carvacrol can activate and inhibit several second messengers and ionic channels at the systemic level. However, there is no evidence of the peripheral antinociception of carvacrol and its mechanism of action. This study was designed to determine whether the opioid receptor-nitric oxide (NO)-cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP)-K+ channel pathway is involved in the local antinociception of carvacrol. Methods: Wistar rats were injected with 1% formalin subcutaneously on the dorsal surface of the right hind paw with the vehicle or carvacrol (100–300 µg/paw). To determine whether the opioid receptor-NO-cGMP-K+ channel pathway and a biguanide-dependent mechanism are responsible for the local antinociception induced by carvacrol, the effect of the injection (10 min before the 1% formalin injection) with the corresponding vehicles, metformin, naltrexone, NG-L-nitro-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME), 1 H-(1,2,4)-oxadiazolo (4,2-a) quinoxalin-1-one (ODQ), and K+ channel blockers on the antinociception induced by local carvacrol (300 µg/paw) was determined. Results: In both phases of the formalin test, carvacrol produced antinociception. Naltrexone, metformin, L-NAME, ODQ, glibenclamide and glipizide (both ATP-sensitive K+ channel blockers), tetraethylammonium and 4-aminopyridine (voltage-gated K+ channel blockers), and apamin and charybdotoxin (Ca2+-activated K+ channel blockers) reversed the carvacrol-induced peripheral antinociception. Conclusions: The local peripheral administration of carvacrol produced significant antinociception and activated the opioid receptor-NO-cGMP-K+ channel pathway. Full article
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14 pages, 3503 KB  
Review
Nitrate as Warden of Nitric Oxide Homeostasis in Mammals
by Barbora Piknova, Ji Won Park and Alan N. Schechter
Nutrients 2025, 17(9), 1544; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17091544 - 30 Apr 2025
Viewed by 820
Abstract
Homeostasis is the self-regulating processes in cells and organisms designed to maintain stability of the internal environment while adjusting to external changes. To achieve this dynamic stability, internal conditions oscillate within tightly regulated physiological tolerance limits. In mammals, maintaining nitric oxide (NO) availability [...] Read more.
Homeostasis is the self-regulating processes in cells and organisms designed to maintain stability of the internal environment while adjusting to external changes. To achieve this dynamic stability, internal conditions oscillate within tightly regulated physiological tolerance limits. In mammals, maintaining nitric oxide (NO) availability appears crucial to sustain relatively constant blood flow into all organs and tissues. We hypothesize that NO homeostasis is one of the most important vital processes for warm-blooded animals. It is impossible to conserve the stability of most other vital substances, such as O2, CO2, blood sugar, pH, and temperature, to name just few, without well-functioning tissue perfusion. NO in mammals is generated either from L-arginine by nitric oxide synthases (NOSs) or by the reduction of nitrate (NO3) to nitrite (NO2) and NO by several proteins. Here we first discuss the organization of these two NO metabolic pathways, emphasizing that both pathways “cross” and “funnel” unused NO into the overall nitrate-nitrite–NO pathway. This pathway is cyclic, which gives nitrate a unique place in metabolism and predisposes it as a reservoir for NO. Then, we discuss the role of NO homeostasis that, by maintaining organ and tissue perfusion, supports and preserves constancy of other blood-delivered substances. This “governing” role of NO makes even clearer that the existence of NO storage and precursor molecules is necessary, to avoid NO shortages in cases of the precursor’s or storage molecule’s temporary unavailability, to ensure uninterrupted tissue access to NO. We propose that the skeletomuscular system and skin act as nitrate reservoirs assuring NO bioavailability at various external and internal conditions. Full article
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15 pages, 3066 KB  
Article
Vasodilatory Effect of n-Butanol Extract from Sanguisorba officinalis L. and Its Mechanism
by Hangyu Jin, Jiaze Li, Shuyuan Wang, Enyi Jin, Jun Zhe Min, Gao Li, Yun Jung Lee and Lihua Cao
Plants 2025, 14(7), 1095; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14071095 - 1 Apr 2025
Viewed by 904
Abstract
The dried root of Sanguisorba officinalis L. (commonly known as Diyu) has been studied for its various pharmacological effects, including its antibacterial, antitumor, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. In the present study, primary cultured vascular endothelial cells (HUVECs) and isolated phenylephrine-precontracted rat thoracic aortic [...] Read more.
The dried root of Sanguisorba officinalis L. (commonly known as Diyu) has been studied for its various pharmacological effects, including its antibacterial, antitumor, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. In the present study, primary cultured vascular endothelial cells (HUVECs) and isolated phenylephrine-precontracted rat thoracic aortic rings were examined to investigate the possible mechanism of a butanol extract of Diyu (BSO) in its vascular relaxant effect. HUVECs treated with BSO produced a significantly higher amount of nitric oxide (NO) compared to the control. However, its production was inhibited by pretreatment with NG-nitro-L-arginine methylester (L-NAME) or wortmannin. BSO also increased the phosphorylation levels of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and Akt. In the aortic ring, BSO relaxed PE-precontracted rat thoracic aortic rings in a concentration-dependent manner. The absence of the vascular endothelium significantly attenuated BSO-induced vasorelaxation. The non-selective NOS inhibitor, L-NAME, and the selective inhibitor of soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC), 1H-[1,2,4]-oxadiazolo-[4,3-α]-quinoxalin-1-one (ODQ), dramatically inhibited the BSO-induced relaxation effect of the endothelium-intact aortic ring. Ca2+-free buffer and intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis regulators (TG, Gd3+, and 2–APB) inhibited BSO-induced vasorelaxation. In Ca2+-free Krebs solution, BSO markedly reduced PE-induced contraction. Vasodilation induced by BSO was significantly inhibited by wortmannin, an inhibitor of Akt. Pretreatment with the non-selective inhibitor of Ca2+-activated K+ channels (KCa), tetraethylammonium (TEA), significantly attenuated the BSO-induced vasorelaxant effect. Furthermore, BSO decreased the systolic blood pressure and heart rate in a concentration-dependent manner in rats. In conclusion, BSO induces vasorelaxation via endothelium-dependent signaling, primarily through the activation of the PI3K-Akt-eNOS-NO signaling pathway in endothelial cells, and the activation of the NO-sGC-cGMP-K⁺ channels pathway in vascular smooth muscle cells. Additionally, store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE)-eNOS pathways and the inhibition of Ca2⁺ mobilization from intracellular stores contribute to BSO-induced vasorelaxation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ethnobotanical and Pharmacological Study of Medicinal Plants)
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15 pages, 1619 KB  
Article
The Antioxidant Power of Bergamot Polyphenolic Fraction Gold Potentiates the Effects of L-Citrulline in Athlete Performance and Vasodilation in a Pilot Study
by Rocco Mollace, Roberta Macrì, Maria Serra, Giovanna Ritorto, Sara Ussia, Federica Scarano, Antonio Cardamone, Vincenzo Musolino, Anna Rita Coppoletta, Micaela Gliozzi, Giuseppe Scipione, Cristina Carresi, Kateryna Pozharova, Carolina Muscoli, Francesco Barillà, Maurizio Volterrani and Vincenzo Mollace
Nutrients 2025, 17(7), 1106; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17071106 - 21 Mar 2025
Viewed by 2465
Abstract
Background: The dietary supplement citrulline might increase nitric oxide levels, leading to vasodilation and improved blood flow, potentially benefiting athletes’ aerobic exercise performance. However, rapid oxidative impairment of the L-arginine/nitric oxide (NO) pathway limits these effects. This is countered by Bergamot Polyphenolic Fraction [...] Read more.
Background: The dietary supplement citrulline might increase nitric oxide levels, leading to vasodilation and improved blood flow, potentially benefiting athletes’ aerobic exercise performance. However, rapid oxidative impairment of the L-arginine/nitric oxide (NO) pathway limits these effects. This is countered by Bergamot Polyphenolic Fraction Gold® (BPFG), a strong natural antioxidant. To investigate L-citrulline + BPFG supplementation’s effects, we performed a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot trial on athletic performance and blood flow in trained athletes (cyclists). Methods: Random assignment of 90 male athletes resulted in nine different groups: placebo for Group 1, BPFG at 500 and 1000 mg daily for Groups 2 and 3, L-citrulline at 1000 and 2000 mg/daily for Groups 4 and 5, and the combination product of BPFG plus citrulline (N.O. Max) for Groups 6–9. Baseline and 3-month pre- and post-exercise biochemical, reactive vasodilation (RHI), and maximal oxygen consumption measurements were taken for all subjects. Results: Three months of the combination of BPFG and L-citrulline (N.O. Max) produced a significant synergistic effect, markedly increasing NO (p < 0.001 vs. placebo) release and RHI (p < 0.001 vs. placebo). Cardiorespiratory fitness improved significantly with the BPFG and L-citrulline combination, resulting in substantially higher VO2 max, VT1, VT2, and peak power and a significantly lower heart rate (p < 0.01 vs. placebo). No harmful adverse effects were observed. Conclusions: N.O. Max supplementation, providing beneficial effects on the antioxidant state and preserving the vascular endothelium might be a supplementation strategy to improve athletic performance and potentiate results. Given the small sample size, this study serves as a pilot, and further research is needed to validate these findings on a larger scale. Full article
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14 pages, 1281 KB  
Review
Salivary-Gland-Mediated Nitrate Recirculation as a Modulator for Cardiovascular Diseases
by Baoxing Pang, Xingyun Qi and Huiliang Zhang
Biomolecules 2025, 15(3), 439; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom15030439 - 19 Mar 2025
Viewed by 1668
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), which include multiple disorders of the heart and blood vessels, are the leading causes of death. Nitric oxide (NO) is a vasodilator that regulates vascular tension. Endogenous NO is produced via the L-arginine–nitric oxide synthase (NOS) pathway. In conditions of [...] Read more.
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), which include multiple disorders of the heart and blood vessels, are the leading causes of death. Nitric oxide (NO) is a vasodilator that regulates vascular tension. Endogenous NO is produced via the L-arginine–nitric oxide synthase (NOS) pathway. In conditions of cardiovascular dysfunction, NOS activity is impaired, leading to NO deficiency. In turn, the reduction in NO bioactivity exacerbates the pathogenesis of CVDs. Exogenous intake of inorganic nitrate supplements endogenous production via the nitrate–nitrite–NO pathway to maintain the NO supply. Salivary glands play an essential role in the conversion of nitrate to NO, with approximately 25% of circulating nitrate being absorbed and secreted into saliva. As a result, salivary nitrate concentrations can exceed that in the blood by more than tenfold. This recycled nitrate in saliva serves as a reservoir for NO and performs NO-like functions when endogenous NO production is insufficient. In this review, we summarize the emerging benefits of dietary nitrate in CVDs, with a particular focus on salivary-gland-mediated nitrate recirculation in maintaining NO bioavailability and cardiovascular homeostasis. Salivary-gland-mediated nitrate recirculation provides a novel perspective for potential intervention of CVDs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacology of Cardiovascular Diseases)
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20 pages, 5057 KB  
Article
Chemoprotective Mechanism of Sodium Thiosulfate Against Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity Is via Renal Hydrogen Sulfide, Arginine/cAMP and NO/cGMP Signaling Pathways
by George J. Dugbartey, Karl K. Alornyo, Ismaila Adams, Samuel Adjei, Daniel Amoah and Richard Obeng-Kyeremeh
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(1), 384; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26010384 - 4 Jan 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 4146
Abstract
Cisplatin is a common and highly effective chemotherapeutic agent whose nephrotoxic side effect is well-characterized. Sodium thiosulfate (STS), an FDA-approved hydrogen sulfide (H2S) donor drug, is emerging as a chemoprotective agent against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity (CIN). In this study, we investigated the [...] Read more.
Cisplatin is a common and highly effective chemotherapeutic agent whose nephrotoxic side effect is well-characterized. Sodium thiosulfate (STS), an FDA-approved hydrogen sulfide (H2S) donor drug, is emerging as a chemoprotective agent against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity (CIN). In this study, we investigated the chemoprotective mechanism of STS in a rat model of CIN. Twenty-five male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly assigned to the following groups: HC: Healthy control (received 10 mL/kg/day of 0.9% saline intraperitoneally (ip), [n = 5]), CIN: Cisplatin (received single dose of 7 mg/kg cisplatin ip [n = 5]); CIN + PAG: Cisplatin and daily ip administration of 40 mg/kg of the H2S inhibitor, DL-propargylglycine (PAG) for 28 days (n = 5); CIN + PAG + STS: Cisplatin and daily PAG and STS (150 µM) ip injection for 28 days; CIN + STS: Cisplatin and daily STS ip administration for 28 days (n = 5). Rats in each group were kept in metabolic cages for 24 h on day 0, 14 and 29 after cisplatin administration for urine collection. Rats were then euthanized, and kidney and blood samples were collected for analysis. Histologically, CIN was characterized by glomerular and tubular injury and significant macrophage influx and tubular apoptosis, as well as markedly increased levels of plasma and renal IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α and impaired renal antioxidant status compared to HC rats (p < 0.001). These pathological changes were exacerbated in CIN + PAG rats and were strongly reduced in CIN + PAG + STS rats relative to CIN + PAG rats (p < 0.01), while superior renal protection was observed in CIN + STS rats. Functionally, CIN was evidenced by markedly increased levels of serum creatinine and BUN, and significantly decreased urine creatinine, renal creatinine clearance, as well as electrolyte imbalance and urinary concentrating defect in comparison with HC (p < 0.01). These functional changes worsened significantly in CIN + PAG rats (p < 0.05) but improved in CIN + PAG + STS rats, with further improvement in CIN + STS rats to levels comparable to HC rats. Mechanistically, STS increased renal and plasma levels of H2S, arginine, cAMP, nitric oxide (NO) and cGMP as well as SIRT3 and PGC-1α. We have shown for the first time that STS provides chemoprotection against CIN by activating renal arginine/cAMP and NO/cGMP signaling pathways and their downstream mechanisms through increased renal H2S production. Full article
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15 pages, 1582 KB  
Review
L-Citrulline in Neonates: From Bench to Bed Side
by Dwayne Mascarenhas, Atefeh Mohammadi, Randa Higazy, Julijana Ivanovska, Estelle Gauda and Bonny Jasani
Children 2025, 12(1), 42; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12010042 - 30 Dec 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2301
Abstract
L-citrulline (L-CIT), a precursor to L-arginine (L-ARG), is a key contributor to the nitric oxide (NO) signaling pathway. Endothelial dysfunction, characterized by deficient nitric oxide synthesis, is implicated in the pathogenesis of various neonatal conditions such as necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) and bronchopulmonary dysplasia [...] Read more.
L-citrulline (L-CIT), a precursor to L-arginine (L-ARG), is a key contributor to the nitric oxide (NO) signaling pathway. Endothelial dysfunction, characterized by deficient nitric oxide synthesis, is implicated in the pathogenesis of various neonatal conditions such as necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) and bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) associated pulmonary hypertension (PH). This review summarizes the current evidence around the possible role of L-CIT supplementation in the treatment of these conditions. Detoxification of endogenously produced superoxide radicals is inadequate in preterm infants due to immature antioxidants that leads to the production of peroxynitrite, a reactive oxygen-free radical that is cytotoxic and causes damage to organelles and cellular membranes, further disrupting the coupling of endothelial NO synthase enzyme and the generation of high levels of reactive nitrogen and oxygen species. Animal studies in lipopolysaccharide-induced models of chorioamnionitis and hyperoxia- and inflammation-induced BPD-PH in rodent lung models revealed that L-CIT supplementation significantly mitigated structural changes in the pulmonary vasculature, preserved alveolar growth, and increased vascular endothelial growth factor gene expression, highlighting the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of L-CIT supplementation. Similar benefits were noted in newborn piglet models of chronic hypoxia-induced PH and NEC. Pharmacokinetic studies in neonates have shown doses of 100–300 mg/kg/day to be safe and well tolerated. A few studies have shown the beneficial effects of L-CIT supplementation in pulmonary hypertension secondary to congenital heart disease, but evidence of efficacy in the neonatal population is lacking. While L-CIT shows promise in the treatment of various neonatal conditions, adequately powered studies to evaluate the safety and efficacy of L-CIT supplementation post-surgical NEC and BPD ± PH in the extremely preterm population are needed to translate this novel therapy to clinical practice. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neonatal Clinical Pharmacology)
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12 pages, 1833 KB  
Article
Antihypertensive Effects of a Sodium Thiosulfate-Loaded Nanoparticle in a Juvenile Chronic Kidney Disease Rat Model
by You-Lin Tain, Chien-Ning Hsu, Chih-Yao Hou and Chih-Kuang Chen
Antioxidants 2024, 13(12), 1574; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13121574 - 20 Dec 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1339
Abstract
Sodium thiosulfate (STS), a precursor of hydrogen sulfide (H2S), has demonstrated antihypertensive properties. Previous studies have suggested that H2S-based interventions can prevent hypertension in pediatric chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, the clinical application of STS is limited by its [...] Read more.
Sodium thiosulfate (STS), a precursor of hydrogen sulfide (H2S), has demonstrated antihypertensive properties. Previous studies have suggested that H2S-based interventions can prevent hypertension in pediatric chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, the clinical application of STS is limited by its rapid release and intravenous administration. To address this, we developed a poly-lactic acid (PLA)-based nanoparticle system for sustained STS delivery and investigated whether weekly treatment with STS-loaded nanoparticles (NPs) could protect against hypertension in a juvenile CKD rat model. Male Sprague Dawley rats, aged three weeks, were fed a diet containing 0.5% adenine for three weeks to induce a model of pediatric CKD. STS-loaded NPs (25 mg/kg) were administered intravenously during weeks 6, 7, and 8, and at week 9, all rats were sacrificed. Treatment with STS-loaded NPs reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure by 10 mm Hg and 8 mm Hg, respectively, in juvenile CKD rats. The protective effect of STS-loaded NPs was linked to increased renal expression of H2S-producing enzymes, including cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE) and D-amino acid oxidase (DAO). Additionally, STS-loaded NP therapy restored nitric oxide (NO) signaling, increasing L-arginine levels, which were disrupted in CKD. Furthermore, the beneficial effects of STS-loaded NPs were associated with inhibition of the renin–angiotensin system (RAS) and the enhancement of the NO signaling pathway. Our findings suggest that STS-loaded NP treatment provides sustained STS delivery and effectively reduces hypertension in a juvenile CKD rat model, bringing us closer to the clinical translation of STS-based therapy for pediatric CKD-induced hypertension. Full article
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33 pages, 12115 KB  
Article
Effects of Nitric Oxide on Bladder Detrusor Overactivity through the NRF2 and HIF-1α Pathways: A Rat Model Induced by Metabolic Syndrome and Ovarian Hormone Deficiency
by Hung-Yu Lin, Jian-He Lu, Rong-Jyh Lin, Kuang-Shun Chueh, Tai-Jui Juan, Jing-Wen Mao, Yi-Chen Lee, Shu-Mien Chuang, Mei-Chen Shen, Ting-Wei Sun and Yung-Shun Juan
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(20), 11103; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms252011103 - 16 Oct 2024
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3095
Abstract
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) includes cardiovascular risk factors like obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and glucose intolerance, which increase the risk of overactive bladder (OAB), characterized by urgency, frequency, urge incontinence, and nocturia. Both MetS and ovarian hormone deficiency (OHD) are linked to bladder overactivity. Nitric [...] Read more.
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) includes cardiovascular risk factors like obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and glucose intolerance, which increase the risk of overactive bladder (OAB), characterized by urgency, frequency, urge incontinence, and nocturia. Both MetS and ovarian hormone deficiency (OHD) are linked to bladder overactivity. Nitric oxide (NO) is known to reduce inflammation and promote healing but its effect on bladder overactivity in MetS and OHD is unclear. This study aimed to investigate NO’s impact on detrusor muscle hyperactivity in rats with MetS and OHD. Female Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into seven groups based on diet and treatments involving L-arginine (NO precursor) and L-NAME (NOS inhibitor). After 12 months on a high-fat, high-sugar diet with or without OVX, a cystometrogram and tracing analysis of voiding behavior were used to identify the symptoms of detrusor hyperactivity. The MetS with or without OHD group had a worse bladder contractile response while L-arginine ameliorated bladder contractile function. In summary, MetS with or without OHD decreased NO production, reduced angiogenesis, and enhanced oxidative stress to cause bladder overactivity, mediated through the NF-kB signaling pathway, whereas L-arginine ameliorated the symptoms of detrusor overactivity and lessened oxidative damage via the NRF2/HIF-1α signaling pathway in MetS with or without OHD-induced OAB. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Biology)
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