NO Synthase
Nitric Oxide Synthase (NOS) is an enzyme responsible for the synthesis of nitric oxide (NO), a critical cellular signaling molecule involved in numerous physiological and pathological processes. There are three isoforms of NOS: neuronal (nNOS), endothelial (eNOS), and inducible (iNOS). Neuronal NOS operates in the nervous system, influencing neurotransmission and neuroplasticity. Endothelial NOS plays a key role in regulating vascular tone and blood flow. Inducible NOS, which can be expressed in various cell types in response to immune stimuli, produces large amounts of NO as part of the body's defense mechanism. Dysregulation of NOS activity is linked to cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and inflammatory conditions, making NOS a significant target for therapeutic intervention.