Murad discovered in 1977 that nitroglycerin and similar substances release nitric oxide, which relaxes smooth muscle cells. At a scientific conference in 1986, Furchgott and Ignarro presented their conclusions that nitric oxide transmits signals in the human organism. This was the first discovery that a gas can act as a signal molecule in the organism. Viagara connection Nitric oxide is different from nitrous oxide, better known as laughing gas. The researchers discovered that nitric oxide tells blood vessels to relax and widen, an effect that helps control blood pressure.
Nitric oxide makes blood vessels dilate by relaxing the vessels' smooth muscles.
It can help trigger erection of the penis the same way, because the relaxation lets blood flow in. The wildly popular Viagra is designed to increase nitric oxide's effect. Viagra maker Pfizer Inc. The winners' research has sparked studies on a wide range of new drugs, including those that can be used in the treatment of atherosclerosis and shock. Studies also show that white blood cells use the gas to kill infectious invaders, and to defend against tumors. This has led to tests to see whether nitric oxide could be used to halt tumor growth.