| The Role of Nitric Oxide in Cancer Progression and Wound Healing Dynamics |
| Paper ID : 1257-IGA |
| Authors |
|
Mehrasa Nikandish * King’s College London; BPharm, University of Georgia, USA |
| Abstract |
| Background and Aim: Initially characterized as a vasodilator, nitric oxide (NO) is now known to influence a wide range of cellular processes including neurotransmission, angiogenesis, and tissue remodeling. Its diverse functions are mediated by three isoforms of nitric oxide synthase (NOS): neuronal (nNOS), endothelial (eNOS), and inducible (iNOS). However, the biological effects of NO are highly concentration- and context-dependent. In oncology, NO can either support or suppress tumor growth, complicating therapeutic approaches. Conversely, in wound healing, NO is generally beneficial, supporting each phase of tissue repair. This paper aims to delineate the dualistic role of NO in both cancer progression and wound healing dynamics, and to explore how therapeutic modulation of NO might be leveraged in clinical settings. Methods: A literature review was conducted using peer-reviewed sources focusing on nitric oxide's involvement in immune modulation, angiogenesis, and tissue remodeling in both oncologic and wound healing contexts. Results: In cancer, NO exhibits both tumor-promoting and tumor-suppressive effects. Low levels of NO can foster angiogenesis, immune evasion, and metastasis, while high levels can induce cytotoxicity and apoptosis. Conversely, in wound healing, NO is essential for initiating vasodilation, coordinating immune responses, and promoting cellular proliferation and matrix remodeling. Therapeutic strategies under investigation include NO donors to accelerate healing and NO inhibitors or high-dose NO applications in oncology. Conclusion: Nitric oxide functions as a double-edged sword: beneficial for tissue repair yet potentially harmful in tumor environments. A deeper understanding of NO’s microenvironmental interactions may enhance therapeutic precision in both cancer and wound management. |
| Keywords |
| Nitric oxide, Cancer progression, Wound healing, Angiogenesis, Immune modulation, Nitric oxide synthase, NO donors, iNOS inhibitors |
| Status: Accepted |
