A redox sensor and triple receptor function for guanylyl cyclase

The biologically produced gas nitric oxide (NO) is an important regulator of the circulatory and nervous systems. NO activates an enzyme (NOGC), to produce its effects. We have evidence that this enzyme exists in 3 different forms as part of a finely-tuned system regulating various physiological and pathophysiological processes. The aim is to define the chemical structure and function of the distinct NOGC forms and investigate their individual signalling mechanisms. The outcome of this study will have profound implications for the understanding and treatment of cardiovascular and neurodegenerative disease.