The Dual Role of Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase in Myocardial Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury: Friend or Foe?

Nitric oxide synthases (NOSs) are a family of enzymes that are responsible for the synthesis of nitric oxide (NO) from the amino acid L-arginine in the body. Among the three key NOSs, the expression of inducible NOS (iNOS) can only be induced by inflammatory stimuli and contribute to the large amount of NO production. iNOS-derived NO plays an important role in various physiological and pathophysiological conditions, including the ischemic heart disease. Nowadays, the development of specific iNOS inhibitors and the availability of iNOS knockout mice have provided substantial evidence to support the role of iNOS/NO signaling in the myocardium. Nevertheless, the role of iNOS/NO signaling in the myocardial ischemic reperfusion injury is very complex and highly perplexing; both detrimental and beneficial effects of iNOS have been described. Thus, this review will aim at providing basic insights into the current progress of the role of iNOS in myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury. A better understanding of the dual role of iNOS in details may help facilitate the development of more effective therapies for the management of ischemic heart diseases.