It was a sensation that this simple, common air pollutant, which is formed when nitrogen burns, for instance in automobile exhaust fumes, could exert important functions in the organism. It was particularly surprising since nitric oxide is totally different from any other known signal molecule and so unstable that it converted to nitrate and nitrite within 10 seconds. Nitric oxide was known to be produced in bacteria but this simple molecule was not expected to be important in higher animals such as mammals. Further research rapidly confirmed that nitric oxide is a signal molecule of key importance for the cardiovascular system and it was also found to exert a series of other functions. We know today that nitric oxide acts as a signal molecule in the nervous system, as a weapon against infections, as a regulator of blood pressure and as gate keeper of blood flow to different organs.
Nitric oxide is present in most living creatures and made by many different types of cells.
To complicate things further, she developed a totally occluded thrombosed jugular vein due to the various intravenous injections given. As if that were not enough for the poor mare, she came down with acute laminitis three months later, and was unable to walk without being forced. The mare was put on butazolidin, Acepromazine and Banamine. Ric Redden Ultimate Shoes were taped onto her fore feet. Laser therapy for stimulation of acupuncture points surrounding the coronary band was instigated by a veterinarian experienced in acupuncture.