The role of gaseous mediators (CO, NO and H2S) in the regulation of blood circulation: analysis of the participation of blood cell microrheology

Among the signaling molecules involved in the regulation of intra- and intercellular systems in various types of cells, a special place is occupied by gaseous compounds – gasotransmitters (GTs). Currently, the most studied are three molecules: nitrogen oxide (NO), carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen sulfide (H₂S). For them, the enzymatic systems of intracellular synthesis and degradation have been determined, the physiological effect has been proved, and the intracellular mechanisms have been determined. Changes in the work of these mechanisms under the influence of GTs causes the development of physiological and/or pathophysiological reactions. These GTs are involved in the regulation of various organs and systems of the human body under normal and pathological conditions, including the structure and function of the circulatory system. In this article, special attention is paid to the influence of all three GTs and their donors on the vascular and hemorheological aspect of the work of blood circulation, and especially on an underdeveloped problem – the microrheology of erythrocytes. It has been shown that all three GTs, along with the well-known vasodilating effect, reduce the adhesion and aggregation of platelets and leukocytes, as well as moderately stimulate the deformability of erythrocytes and strongly inhibit their aggregation. The performed analysis of the data indicates that, along with the specific signaling cascades for each GT, the use of a common signaling pathway associated with soluble guanylate cyclase and NO synthase was also revealed in microrheological responses. The intersection of signaling pathways triggered by NO, CO and H₂S on common effectors, as well as their interaction with each other (cross-talk), can determine the final, resulting functional response of the cell.

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