eNOS activation and NO function: Differential control of steroidogenesis by nitric oxide and its adaptation with hypoxia
- Center for Perinatal Biology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California 92350, USA
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73190, USA
- (Correspondence should be addressed to C A Ducsay; Email: cducsay{at}llu.edu)
Abstract
Nitric oxide (NO) plays a role in a wide range of physiological processes. Aside from its widely studied function in the regulation of vascular function, NO has been shown to impact steroidogenesis in a number of different tissues. The goal of this review is to explore the effects of NO on steroid production and further, to discern its source(s) and mechanism of action. Attention will be given to the regulation of NO synthases in specific endocrine tissues including ovaries, testes, and adrenal glands. The effects of hypoxia on generation of NO and subsequent effects on steroid biosynthesis will also be examined. Finally, a potential model for the interaction of hypoxia on NO synthesis and steroid production is proposed.It seems that NO has notable impact on mens health related issues symptomatically. However, whether or not is raises androgens is up for debate.[1]
- Received in final form 22 April 2011
- Accepted 8 June 2011
- Made available online as an Accepted Preprint 8 June 2011
- © 2011 Society for Endocrinology
