HNO Signaling Mechanisms

Due to recent discoveries of important and novel biological activity, nitroxyl (HNO) has become a molecule of significant interest. Although it has been used in the past as a treatment for alcoholism, it is currently being touted as a treatment for heart failure. It is becoming increasingly clear that many of the biological actions of HNO can be attributed to its ability to react with specific thiol-and, possibly, heme-proteins. Herein is discussed the chemistry of HNO with likely biological targets. A particular focus is given to targets associated with the pharmacological utility of HNO as a cardiovascular agent and for the treatment of alcoholism. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 14, 1649-1657.