| [ Summary ] |
The biological functions of nitric oxide (NO) remain controversial. One reason for this is the difficulty in direct detection of NO in vivo, which is produced in low concentration and has a short half-life. This hinders detailed examination, based on the quantityand the distribution of NO. In order to monitor the changes of NO levels rapidly and accurately, several techniques have been developed. The techniques are based on chemiluminescence, fluorescence, colorimetry, electrochemistry, or electron spin resonance (ESR). Since all these methods have advantages and disadvantages, it is necessary to select the most suitable method for each experiment. The method should be discreetly utilized, and confirmed, such as with control experiments using an inhibitor of NO synthase. Judging from the latest reports, NO electrodes and imaging technlques based on fluorescenceor ESR may be very useful forthe clarification of NO functions ill vivo. |