Assay of Tissue Activity of Nitric Oxide Synthase

Abstract

Nitric oxide synthase activity can be assayed by a variety of methods. The simplest method to assay activity is the conversion of radiolabeled L‐arginine to L‐citrulline. The assay described in this unit is sensitive, simple to perform, is relatively robust, and can be performed with intact monolayer or suspension cells, or with cell or tissue extracts. The product is easily separated from the reaction by cation‐exchange chromatography.