THE NITRIC OXIDE CYCLIC GMP PATHWAY - A POTENTIAL MAJOR REGULATOR OF COCHLEAR PHYSIOLOGY/

The nitric oxide (NO)/cyclic guanosine monophosphate (GMP) pathway is now recognized as a major regulatory system in cell physiology and tis sue homeostasis. This pathway may control processes as diverse as musc le relaxation, gut peristalsis, neurotransmission and hormonal secreti on. It is also involved in the development and function of sensory sys tems such as vision and olfaction. This review will detail the NO/cycl ic GMP pathway, evaluate studies in the auditory system and discuss it s potential participation in cochlear blood flow, supporting cell phys iology and excitotoxicity. (C) 1998 Published by Elsevier Science B.V.