Abstract
The inducible form of nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) is expressed in hepatic cells in pathological conditions. Its induction is involved in the development of liver fibrosis, and thus iNOS could be a therapeutic target for liver fibrosis. This review summarizes the role of iNOS in liver fibrosis, focusing on 1) iNOS biology, 2) iNOS-expressing liver cells, 3) iNOS-related therapeutic strategies, and 4) future directions.
Keywords:
Hepatic stellate cell; Kupffer cell; Liver sinusoidal endothelial cell; NO; iNOS.
Publication types
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Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
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Review
MeSH terms
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Endothelial Cells / metabolism
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Hepatic Stellate Cells / metabolism
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Humans
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Kupffer Cells / metabolism
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Liver Cirrhosis / metabolism
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Liver Cirrhosis / pathology*
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Nitric Oxide / metabolism*
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Nitric Oxide Synthase Type II / antagonists & inhibitors
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Nitric Oxide Synthase Type II / genetics
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Nitric Oxide Synthase Type II / metabolism*
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Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide
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RNA, Untranslated / metabolism
Substances
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RNA, Untranslated
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Nitric Oxide
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Nitric Oxide Synthase Type II