Nitric Oxide and Renal Regulation of Sodium Excretion

The importance of nitric oxide in the acute and long-term regulation of arterial pressure and renal function is supported by the results obtained in many studies. Reports described in this brief review provide evidences that nitric oxide plays an important role in regulating the urinary sodium and water excretion in basal conditions and during increments in arterial pressure and extracellular volume. Data showing an important interaction between nitric oxide and angiotensin II or prostaglandins in the regulation of the renal excretory function is also provided. These studies support the concept that the development of sodium sensitive hypertension could be secondary to a deficient nitric oxide production.