Role of nitric oxide in the control of renin secretion.

Because of the significant constitutive expression of NO synthases in the juxtaglomerular apparatus, nitric oxide (NO) is considered as a likely modulator of renin secretion. In most instances, NO appears as a tonic enhancer of renin secretion, acting via inhibition of cAMP degradation through the action of cGMP. Depending on as yet unknown factors, the stimulatory effect of NO on renin secretion may also switch to an inhibitory one that is compatible with the inhibition of renin secretion by cGMP-dependent protein kinase activity. Whether NO plays a direct regulatory role or a more permissive role in the control of renin secretion remains to be answered.