Nitric oxide and the respiratory system (original) (raw)

Nitric oxide (NO) is a significant biologically active molecule; its role in controlling cellular and organ functions, especially the respiratory, cardiovascular, nervous and immune system, has been well established. In the respiratory system, this molecule is responsible for maintaining pulmonary vascular integrity. It improves arterial oxygenation, which may be associated with its action on the distribution of blood flow in the lungs. This property is the basis for i nhaled nitric oxide (INO) being employed in the treatment of high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE), acute respiratory distress syndrome and persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn. The combined use of NO and oxygen has cumulative effect on the pulmonary haemodynamics and gas exchange. Soldiers of the Indian army deployed at high altitude are prone to develop acute mountain sickness and HAPE. Inhalation of NO is preferred for the treatment of these patients. Clinical application of INO has been fr equently temp...