Title:Nitroso-Redox Balance and Modulation of Basal Myocardial Function: An Update from the Italian Society of Cardiovascular Research (SIRC)
Volume: 16
Issue: 8
Author(s): Carlo G. Tocchetti, Marilisa Molinaro, Tommaso Angelone, Vincenzo Lionetti, Rosalinda Madonna, Fabio Mangiacapra, Francesco Moccia, Claudia Penna, Laura Sartiani, Federico Quaini and Pasquale Pagliaro
Affiliation:
Keywords:
Cardiac hypertrophy, excitation contraction coupling, heart failure, myocardial function, reactive nitrogen species,
reactive oxygen species.
Abstract: Reactive oxygen species and reactive nitrogen species are produced endogenously by cardiomyocytes and
are fundamental signaling molecules that regulate cellular function. Production of ROS and RNS is finely tuned to
maintain proper myocardial function, but is altered in many pathophysiological conditions, therefore contributing to
worsening myocardial dysfunction and ultimately heart failure. Indeed, an excess of ROS and RNS is central in many
pathways leading to cardiac hypertrophy and failure, and the correct regulation of the nitroso-redox balance is fundamental
for the function of the main components of the EC-coupling machinery. Broad antioxidant therapies have been
proposed to improve myocardial function, but these therapies blunt even physiological ROS and RNS signaling, bringing
limited, if any, beneficial effect. On the other hand, more targeted interventions on specific sources or pathways
may produce promising results.
