Nitroaromatic amino acids as inhibitors of neuronal nitric oxide synthase

Nitric oxide (NO .) is an important biomodulator of many physiological processes. The inhibition of inappropriate production of NO . by the isoforms of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) has been proposed as a therapeutic approach for the treatment of stroke, inflammation, and other processes. In this study, certain 2-nitroaryl-substituted amino acid analogues were discovered to inhibit NOS. Analogues bearing a 5-methyl substituent on the aromatic ring demonstrated maximal inhibitory potency. For two selected inhibitors, investigation of the kinetics of the enzyme showed the inhibition to be competitive with L-arginine. Additionally, functional NOS inhibition in tissue preparations was demonstrated.