NO and angiogenesis

Atheroscler Suppl. 2003 Dec;4(4):53-60. doi: 10.1016/s1567-5688(03)00034-5.

Abstract

Angiogenesis requires the elaboration of endothelium-derived nitric oxide (NO). Angiogenic factors induce the release of NO from endothelial cells, which mediates a multiplicity of processes involved in angiogenesis. These NO-modulated processes include endothelial cell survival, proliferation, migration, and interaction with the extracellular matrix. Derangements of the NO synthase pathway impair angiogenesis. Accordingly, the competitive inhibitor of the NOS pathway asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) acts as an endogenous inhibitor of angiogenesis. By contrast, agents which increase NO synthesis, such as low dose statins, enhance angiogenesis. Modulation of the NO synthase pathway could become a new therapeutic avenue for angiogenesis-related disorders.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors / antagonists & inhibitors
  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors / pharmacology*
  • Arginine / analogs & derivatives*
  • Arginine / pharmacology
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / metabolism
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / physiopathology
  • Cell Movement / drug effects
  • Cell Movement / physiology
  • Cell Survival / drug effects
  • Endothelial Cells / drug effects
  • Endothelial Cells / metabolism
  • Endothelium, Vascular / cytology
  • Endothelium, Vascular / drug effects
  • Endothelium, Vascular / metabolism
  • Enzyme Inhibitors / pharmacology
  • Humans
  • Nitric Oxide / physiology*

Substances

  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors
  • Enzyme Inhibitors
  • Nitric Oxide
  • N,N-dimethylarginine
  • Arginine