nitric oxide synthase (NOS)
Nitric oxide synthase (NOS) is an enzyme responsible for producing nitric oxide (NO), a signaling molecule that plays a crucial role in various physiological processes. There are three main types of NOS: neuronal NOS (nNOS), endothelial NOS (eNOS), and inducible NOS (iNOS), each with distinct functions and locations in the body.
Nitric oxide produced by NOS is important for regulating blood flow, neurotransmission, and immune responses. In the cardiovascular system, eNOS helps maintain vascular health by promoting relaxation of blood vessels, while nNOS is involved in communication between nerve cells. iNOS is typically expressed during inflammatory responses, contributing to the immune system's defense mechanisms.