Nitric oxide influences dopaminergic processes

Abstract

Nitric oxide, in recent years, has emerged as an important substance capable of modifying many biological processes. It is involved with both neural and immune processes. In my laboratory I will be examining the relationship of nitric oxide and its involvement with modifying dopaminergic processes. In this review, I examine reports that already document this relationship. Nitric oxide appears to be able to facilitate the release of various monoamines, especially dopamine. Furthermore, this gas has the ability to block the presynaptic re-uptake of dopamine as well. Taken together, it would appear that nitric oxide can prolong the ‘life’ of dopamine in the synapse. Given the significance of dopamine in motor and psychological processes the significance of nitric oxide involvement increases exponentially.