Nitric oxide is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula NO, a nitrogen oxide compound, and the valence of nitrogen is +2. It is a colorless gas under normal temperature and pressure, slightly soluble in water, soluble in ethanol and carbon disulfide.
Nitric oxide can dilate blood vessels and relax the smooth muscle of blood vessels, thereby increasing blood flow and lowering blood pressure. This role helps to prevent and treat cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension and coronary heart disease. In addition, it improves peripheral circulation, allowing blood to nourish the heart and other tissues more effectively, reducing cardiac load. In the nervous system, nitric oxide, as an important neurotransmitter, is involved in the transmission of nerve signals and has a regulatory effect on peripheral nerve endings. It also regulates sleep quality and alleviates brain fatigue, regulating the sleep-wake cycle by affecting the synthesis and release of neurotransmitters.
Nitric oxide has the effect of enhancing immune function, can promote the activity of immune cells, and improve the ability of the body to fight pathogens and tumor cells. In addition, it also has anti-inflammatory effects and can be used to treat inflammatory diseases such as bronchial asthma and chronic bronchitis. Nitric oxide also regulates insulin sensitivity, boosts metabolism, and helps flush out toxic substances from the body. In the male reproductive system, it promotes relaxation of the smooth muscle of the cavernous body of the penis, thereby enhancing erectile function. In addition, nitric oxide has a protective effect on the nervous system, preventing nerve cell death, and relaxes airway smooth muscle in the respiratory system and dilates the airway.