All articles tagged with #nitric oxide
Researchers report that a vitamin B12–based compound, nitrosylcobalamin (NO-Cbl), can cross the blood-brain barrier, selectively accumulate in glioblastoma tumors, and deliver nitric oxide to cancer cells in preclinical models; it also shows synergistic activity with temozolomide (and TRAIL) to enhance tumor suppression, offering a promising but early approach that requires further validation before clinical use.
A study in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology found that chewing sugary gum for several hours after consuming nitrate-rich vegetables (like beets, spinach, and kale) increases mouth nitrite and systemic nitrite, which can temporarily lower blood pressure. The effect is short-lived and while it may aid endurance or post-meal BP, sugary gum carries dental health risks and isn’t a substitute for medical BP management.
A University of Exeter study found older adults who drank nitrate-rich beetroot juice for two weeks experienced a drop in blood pressure, an effect not observed in younger participants, possibly due to age-related declines in nitric oxide production and changes in mouth bacteria that process nitrates. The findings suggest dietary nitrates from vegetables could support cardiovascular health but are not a substitute for medication, and larger trials are needed; other nitrate-rich foods like spinach and kale may offer similar benefits.
New research finds watermelon consumption is associated with higher-quality diets and better nutrient intake, including more fiber, minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants, while lower in added sugars and saturated fat. A small clinical trial suggests watermelon juice may help preserve vascular function during hyperglycemia by supporting nitric oxide pathways via L-citrulline and L-arginine. Watermelon's high water content makes it hydrating and low in calories, and its lycopene content may further support cardiovascular health, but larger long-term studies are needed.
Lab findings and observational studies suggest erythritol could damage the blood-brain barrier and disrupt vascular control, potentially increasing stroke and cardiovascular risk, but results are preliminary (cell-based and population data) and require further validation; regulators still deem erythritol safe for now.
Social media claims that mouthwash drastically raises blood pressure are not supported. Research shows that strong mouthwashes (eg, chlorhexidine) can disrupt oral bacteria and impede nitrate-to-nitrite conversion, potentially raising systolic blood pressure in some short-term trials. However, milder, everyday mouthwashes generally have little effect on this pathway or on heart health, and a long-term study found no link between regular mouthwash use and cardiovascular death. The takeaway is to choose a milder mouthwash, use it as directed, and maintain good oral hygiene, since untreated oral disease is linked to cardiovascular risk.
Researchers show that high levels of brain nitric oxide cause S-nitrosylation and destruction of the TSC2 brake protein, hyperactivating the mTOR growth pathway and leading to autism-like behaviors in Shank3/Cntnap2 autism-model mice. Blocking nitric oxide preserves TSC2, slows the mTOR pathway, and restores typical brain function and social behaviors in these mice; conversely, activating mTOR in healthy mice induces autism-like traits. The mechanism appears in human SHANK3-mutant neurons and in blood samples from autistic children, suggesting a conserved NO–TSC2–mTOR axis and a potential drug target, though limitations include small human sample sizes and the need for broader studies.
Excess nitric oxide can modify TSC2 via S-nitrosylation, marking it for destruction and removing the mTOR 'brake.' With TSC2 diminished, mTOR activity surges, disrupting neuronal signaling in autism models. Blocking NO signaling or engineering a NO-resistant TSC2 normalized mTOR and improved related cellular readouts in SHANK3 and CNTNAP2 mouse models, and clinical samples from children with SHANK3 mutations and idiopathic ASD showed reduced TSC2 and elevated mTOR, supporting a NO–TSC2–mTOR mechanism and suggesting nitric oxide inhibitors as a potential ASD therapy and biomarker target.
A Cleveland team identified SCoR2, an enzyme that removes nitric oxide from proteins controlling fat storage and production. In mice, inhibiting SCoR2 prevented weight gain, reduced liver damage, and lowered cholesterol, suggesting a first‑in‑class drug could treat obesity and cardiovascular disease, with clinical trials anticipated in about 18 months.
Aerobic exercise helps lower blood pressure by retraining blood vessels to stay relaxed and flexible, promoting better blood flow and reducing cardiovascular strain, while also reducing stress hormones and supporting overall heart health.
Certain everyday habits such as consuming refined sugar, processed starches, industrial seed oils, smoking, and using antibacterial mouthwash can reduce nitric oxide levels, impair blood vessel function, and increase the risk of heart attacks, highlighting the importance of healthy diet and lifestyle choices for cardiovascular health.
A dentist warns that daily use of alcohol-based mouthwash can harm beneficial oral bacteria, reducing nitric oxide production which is vital for blood pressure regulation and overall health. Overuse may also interfere with exercise benefits and is not recommended regularly, especially with alcohol-free variants that contain high essential oils.
New research suggests that air pollution inhaled by pregnant women may increase the risk of autism in genetically predisposed children. The study, led by Dr. Haitham Amal, highlights the role of pollutants like nitric oxide in potentially causing inflammation and altering brain development. With autism rates rising, the research underscores the importance of understanding environmental factors contributing to the condition. The study reviewed various pollutants, including particulate matter and nitrogen oxides, and found a significant correlation between exposure and autism risk.
Professor Rob Galloway explores the potential link between Viagra and dementia prevention, highlighting the importance of addressing underlying health issues rather than relying solely on medication for erectile dysfunction. Research suggests that Viagra may reduce dementia risk by increasing blood flow to the brain, but its side effects warrant caution. The study also prompts consideration of alternative methods to boost nitric oxide levels, such as consuming nitrate-rich foods and antioxidants, as well as engaging in regular physical activity to support brain health.
Nasal sprays containing iota-carrageenan or nitric oxide are being touted as potential tools for COVID prevention, with some studies showing promising results. However, these sprays are not approved by the FDA and lack sufficient clinical trial data to support their effectiveness. While some countries have approved certain nasal sprays, the slow pace of clinical trials and regulatory processes in the US has hindered their availability. Researchers are exploring innovative nasal treatments, such as sprays with ACE2 receptor-like filaments and molecules that inhibit viral binding, but more research is needed. Until then, wearing masks remains a crucial preventive measure.