Neurotransmisores Gaseosos

Brain function is based primarily on chemical neurotransmission. For a long time it was believed that communication between neurons occurred exclusively via synaptic contacts. However, there is convincing evidence for the existence of a new form of interneuronal communication. In this article we will focus on two endogenously produced gaseous molecules, nitric oxide (NO) and carbon monoxide (CO), that do not fit the classic criteria for neurotransmitters but which, in many cases, mediate interneuronal communication as faithfully as the typical neurotransmitters. Recent data concerning their production and physiological function are reviewe