NOS3

NOS3 produces the enzyme nitric oxide synthase responsible for making nitric oxide, known to be protective in our blood vessels and to be involved in vasodilation (opening of the blood vessels).  Among its related pathways are Endothelin Pathways and EGF/EGFR Signaling Pathway. 

Nitric oxide is a reactive free radical that acts as a biologic mediator in several processes, including neurotransmission and antimicrobial and antitumoral activities. Nitric oxide is synthesized from L-arginine by nitric oxide synthases. Variations in this gene are associated with susceptibility to coronary spasms.

Variants result in low nitric oxide production which has been associated with cardiovascular disease. Recent research has shown that omega-3 fat has a positive impact on cardiovascular risk in people with NOS3 variants by lowering another kind of fat called triglycerides which is also linked to lower HDL (good) cholesterol.

Some SNP variants are associated with increased cardiovascular risk markers and increased risk of high blood pressure. With reduced NO production relaxation of smooth muscles surrounding blood vessels will be reduced leading to increased blood pressure.

Impaired NO production is involved in the pathogenesis of several diseases such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, obesity, pneumonia, and migraine. In this regard, a large number of studies showed that polymorphisms in NOS3 gene affect the susceptibility to these diseases. 

If you carry a risk allele you may benefit from adding in the 3 co-factors associated with NOS3 function; namely arginine, B2, iron, and tetrahydrobiopterin (production increased by methyl folate, Vitamin C, and curcumin).