Although the antimicrobial potential of nitric oxide (NO) is widely published, it is little used clinically. Numerous preclinical studies have demonstrated that NO has generic static and cidal activities against viruses (including β-coronaviruses such as SARS-CoV-2), bacteria, protozoa and fungi/yeasts in vitro. Therapeutic effects have been seen in animal models in vivo, and phase II trials have demonstrated that NO donors can reduce microbial infection. 

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Nitric oxide (NO) is an endogenously produced molecule critical in defending against infection. Depending on its concentration, NO exerts antimicrobial effects in two ways. At low concentrations, NO acts as a signaling molecule that promotes the growth and activity of immune cells. At high concentrations, such as during the respiratory burst of a neutrophil, NO covalently binds DNA, proteins, and lipids, thereby inhibiting or killing target pathogens. Considering that NO is an integral and highly conserved part of the host immune response, it is not surprising that few bacteria are able to escape the antimicrobial effect of NO

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