Nitric oxide (NO) is a ubiquitous, naturally occurring molecule found in a variety of cell types
and organ systems. In the cardiovascular system, NO is an important determinant of basal
vascular tone, prevents platelet activation, limits leukocyte adhesion to the endothelium, and
regulates myocardial contractility. NO may also play a role in the pathogenesis of common
cardiovascular disorders, including hypotension accompanying shock states, essential
hypertension, and atherosclerosis. In this review, we discuss the biochemistry of NO and …