Nitric oxide and apoptosis in mesangial cells

Radicals such as nitric oxide (NO) or superoxide (O-2(-)) encompass the ability to initiate morphological and biochemical alterations that are reminiscent of apoptosis. In mesangial cells, death as a result of NO formation is efficiently antagonized by the simultaneous presence of superoxide (O-2(-)) and vice versa. This article reviews the consequences of a diffusion controlled NO/O-2(-) interaction with the outcome of redirecting the apoptotic initiating activity of either NO or O-2(-) toward protection. The crosstalk between cell destructive and protective pathways, and their activation or inhibition under the modulatory influence of NO and/or O-2(-) are summarized.