Q. Which one of the following is synthesized in the human body that dilates blood vessels and increases blood flow?
(a) Nitric oxide
(b) Nitrous oxide
(c) Nitrogen dioxide
(d) Nitrogen pentoxide
Correct answer: (a) Nitric oxid
Question from UPSC Prelims 2024 GS Paper
Explanation:
Nitric oxide
Nitric oxide (NO) is indeed synthesized in the human body and plays a crucial role in vasodilation (dilation of blood vessels) and increasing blood flow. Some key points about nitric oxide in the body:
1. It’s produced by endothelial cells lining blood vessels.
2. It acts as a signaling molecule, causing smooth muscle in vessel walls to relax.
3. This relaxation leads to vasodilation, which increases blood flow.
4. It’s important for regulating blood pressure and various other physiological processes.
The other options are not correct:
(b) Nitrous oxide: Also known as “laughing gas,” it’s not naturally produced in the body.
(c) Nitrogen dioxide: A toxic air pollutant, not produced in the body.
(d) Nitrogen pentoxide: An unstable compound not found in biological systems.