Nitric oxide
Nitric Oxide
Nitric oxide (pronounced: /ˈnaɪtrɪk ˈɒksaɪd/), also known as NO, is a chemical compound consisting of one nitrogen atom and one oxygen atom. It is a colorless and odorless gas that plays a significant role in several biological processes.
Etymology
The term "Nitric oxide" is derived from the Latin words 'nitrum', meaning 'native soda', and 'oxide', which refers to a compound that contains one or more oxygen atoms.
Role in the Body
Nitric oxide is a crucial molecule in the body that helps with various functions. It is a vasodilator, meaning it helps to relax and widen the blood vessels, improving blood flow and reducing blood pressure. It also plays a role in neurotransmission, the process by which nerve signals are sent throughout the body.
Related Terms
- Nitrogen: A chemical element with the symbol N and atomic number 7. It is a common element in the universe, estimated at about seventh in total abundance in the Milky Way and the Solar System.
- Oxygen: A chemical element with the symbol O and atomic number 8. It is a member of the chalcogen group on the periodic table, a highly reactive nonmetal, and an oxidizing agent that readily forms oxides with most elements as well as with other compounds.
- Vasodilation: The widening of blood vessels resulting from relaxation of smooth muscle cells within the vessel walls.
- Neurotransmission: The process by which signaling molecules called neurotransmitters are released by a neuron, and bind to and activate the receptors of another neuron.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Nitric oxide
- Wikipedia's article - Nitric oxide
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