Answer
Nitric oxide (NO, not N2O) is a gaseous neurotransmitter (NT). It is synthesized from the amino acid arginine by the action of nitric oxide synthase (NOS). This synthesis takes place in CNS tissues, adrenal glands, and nerves of the penis.
Work Step by Step
Nitric oxide is different from other neurotransmitters in the following ways:
-- It is synthesized only on demand
-- It is not stored
It exists only briefly-- approximately 10 seconds
Note: NO is the same as endothelium derived relaxing factor(EDRF). It can lower blood pressure and promote erection in males --mediates the effect of Viagra. Furthermore NO is a free radical agent and in large quantities can be toxic
