Nitric Oxide, Stress, and Depression

Stress and depression have a significant impact on modern society. Even though their symptomatology is well characterized, little is known about the molecular mechanisms underlying these disturbing disorders. While the role of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine (NE), dopamine (DA), corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), and arginine vasopressin (AVP) has been extensively studied, new evidence suggests a role for the unique neurotransmitter nitric oxide (NO). This highly diffusible and reactive molecule is synthesized by at least three enzyme subtypes of NO synthase (NOS). The commonly known neuronal NOS subtype is localized in areas of the brain related to stress and depression. The…