Role of nitric oxide in intestinal water and electrolyte transport

Since Palmer et al and Ignarroet al showed that vascular endothelial cells could synthesise nitric oxide (NO), this soluble gas has emerged as an important mediator, messenger and regulator of cell function in a number of physiological systems and pathophysiological states. 1-4 The effect of NO on the intestinal epithelium, the local microcirculation, the enteric nervous system, and inflammatory cascades has implicated it as a potential mediator of intestinal water and electrolyte transport. 5 Data produced by different groups over the past few years have been contradictory, some showing NO as an absorbagogue and others as a secretagogue.