Inducible nitric oxide synthase: from cloning to therapeutic applications.

Elucidation of the many roles of nitric oxide (NO) in homeostasis and disease states has uncovered many areas where manipulation of NO production would be of therapeutic benefit. Recent advances in gene transfer technology and the cloning of the inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) gene have led to the development of strategies for gene therapy to increase NO production for the treatment of disorders ranging from vascular restenosis to impaired wound healing. This review summarizes the current status of iNOS gene therapy research.