Induction of NO-synthase and acetaldehyde dehydrogenase in neurons of human cerebellar cortex during chronic alcohol intoxication.

Induction of NO-synthase and acetaldehyde dehydrogenase in Purkinje cells, basket-like neurons, and microvascular endothelium of human cerebellar cortex was detected in patients with chronic alcohol intoxication. It was hypothesized that the neuromodulating effect of NO is associated with mechanisms protecting neurons from toxic effects of ethanol and acetaldehyde.