Nitric Oxide in Pulmonary Processes: Role in Physiology and Pathophysiology of Lung Disease (Respiratory Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy)

Hardcover, viii + 230 pages, NOT ex-library. Moderate wear, clean condition with unmarked text, free of inscriptions and stamps, firmly bound. Some indentations on boards. Issued without a dust jacket. -- This volume presents a detailed scientific review of nitric oxide's multifaceted role in lung biology, with emphasis on its relevance to both normal respiratory physiology and the progression of pulmonary diseases. It compiles contributions from leading researchers across pharmacology, physiology and respiratory medicine. The first section lays the biochemical foundation, tracing nitric oxide synthesis from different cell types via distinct nitric oxide synthase isoforms. It outlines how nitric oxide influences vascular tone, smooth muscle relaxation, neurotransmission and immune responses. The regulatory mechanisms behind the expression and activation of neuronal, endothelial and inducible nitric oxide synthases are described in molecular detail. Subsequent chapters explore nitric oxide's participation in airway responsiveness, vasodilation and inflammatory pathways. For instance, its bronchodilator properties and its complex involvement in airway hyperreactivity are addressed with reference to experimental data. The volume also covers how nitric oxide modulates inflammatory cell behaviour, interacts with reactive oxygen species and influences signalling cascades through both cyclic guanosine monophosphate and thiol-mediated mechanisms. Its dual potential as a homeostatic agent and pathological mediator is a recurring theme.The therapeutic section investigates clinical approaches involving exhaled nitric oxide measurement as a biomarker and the use of inhaled nitric oxide for conditions such as pulmonary hypertension. It critically evaluates pharmacological interventions involving nitric oxide donors and synthase inhibitors, weighing their potential against safety concerns. Case studies and animal models are discussed alongside implications for human trials. By linking cellular mechanisms with disease states such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and adult respiratory distress syndrome, the book offers an integrated picture of nitric oxide's systemic and localised roles. With its blend of foundational science and clinical translation, it provides a robust reference for researchers and clinicians in pulmonary medicine, pharmacology and biomedical science. -- Contents: To Nitric Oxide Biology -- 1. Nitric Oxide Synthesis and Actions 2. Reactive Oxygen and Reactive Nitrogen Species in the Lung -- Role of Endogenous Nitric Oxide in the Lung -- 3. Non-Adrenergic Non-Cholinergic Neurotransmission in the Airways: Role of Nitric Oxide 4. Localisation of Nitric Oxide Synthases in the Lung 5. Role of Nitric Oxide in the Regulation of Pulmonary Vascular Tone 6. Nitric Oxide and Bronchial Hyperresponsiveness 7. Bronchodilator Actions of Nitric Oxide and Related Compounds 8. Role of Nitric Oxide in Airway Inflammation -- Therapeutic Potential of Inhaled Nitric Oxide and Nitric Oxide Synthase Inhibitors in Lung Disease -- 9. Nitric Oxide in Exhaled Air: Relevance in Inflammatory Lung Disease 10. Luminal Nitric Oxide in the Upper Airways: Implications for Local and Distal Sites of Action 11. Inhaled Nitric Oxide as a Therapy for Diseases of the Pulmonary Vasculature 12. Combined Use of Nitric Oxide and Nitric Oxide Synthase Inhibitors as a Possible Therapeutic Approach.…