Effects of nitric oxide on red blood cells: changes in erythrocyte resistance to hypotonic hemolysis and potassium efflux by experimental maneuvers that decrease nitric oxide.

To determine the role of nitric oxide (NO)-dependent mechanisms on erythrocyte properties, we exposed red cells to L-arginine competitive analogues, 8Br-cyclic guanosine monophosphate (8Br-cGMP) and neutrophil-eliminating filters. These treatments significantly decreased hypotonic hemolysis, increased potassium efflux and caused a spiculate change in erythrocyte morphology. These effects were related to a decrease of NO caused by the three types of treatments.