Endothelial nitric oxide synthase in red blood cells: Key to a new erythrocrine function?

Miriam M. Cortese-Krott and Malte Kelm

Redox Biology
Volume 2, 2014, Pages 251–258

Highlights

1. We define erythrocrine function the ability of RBC to secret signaling entities or transmitter molecules.
2. Erythrocrine function include scavenging, transporting and producing NO metabolites and ATP.
3. There is in vitro and in vivo evidence of a role of red cell eNOS in signaling and erythrocrine function.
4. Red cell eNOS and erythrocrine function might be involved in organ protection.
5. Further studies should address the role of red cell eNOS/RBC signaling in cardiovascular health.