The Role of Nitric Oxide in Neuroimmune Disorders

Introduction

• Presenter: Bernon Burm, Functional Medicine Practitioner, Clinical Educator and Researcher
• Series: The More You Know (hosted by Berkeley Life)
• Focus: Nitric oxide's role in neuroimmune and neurodegenerative disorders
• Contact: info@berkeleylife.com

Importance of Nitric Oxide

• Key Points:
  • Nitric oxide is crucial for neurogenesis and neuroplasticity.
  • It plays a role in the maturation and integration of neural stem cells.
  • Facilitates blood flow, vasodilation, and nutrient delivery.
  • Integral to several chronic diseases, especially neuroimmune and neurodegenerative disorders.

Neuroimmune Epidemic

• Statistics:
  • 6 in 10 Americans have a chronic disease; 4 in 10 have two or more.
  • 1 in 5 Americans have an autoimmune disorder; 75% of these are women.
  • Multiple sclerosis affects 1 million Americans.
  • Alzheimer's and Parkinson's are not traditionally considered autoimmune but evidence is growing.

Mechanisms of Neuroimmune Disorders

• Blood Flow & Oxygenation:

  • Brain's high energy demands (20% of daily energy expenditure).
  • Compromised blood flow can worsen conditions like multiple sclerosis.
  • Hypoxia in the brain can lead to increased glutamatergic activity, excitotoxicity, neuroinflammation, and microglial activation.

• Blood-Brain Barrier:

  • Compromised blood flow can disrupt the blood-brain barrier, allowing toxins and immune cells to infiltrate the brain.
  • This can increase neuroinflammation and impair waste removal.

Role of Nitric Oxide

• Vasodilation:

  • Nitric oxide is critical for expanding blood vessels and lymphatic vessels.
  • Helps in blood flow, nutrient, and immune cell transport.

• Neuroprotection:

  • Regulates neurotransmission and neuroplasticity.
  • Maintains the integrity of the blood-brain barrier.
  • Supports mitochondrial function.

Nitric Oxide Pathways

• NOS Pathway:

  • Three isoforms: NOS1 (neuronal), NOS2 (inducible), NOS3 (endothelial).
  • Requires several cofactors (e.g., biopterin, oxygen) for nitric oxide production.
  • NOS uncoupling can lead to superoxide production instead of nitric oxide.

• Nitrate Pathway:

  • Facilitated by oral and gastrointestinal microbiota.
  • Converts nitrate to nitrite and then to nitric oxide.
  • Important for maintaining a nitrate pool in the body.

Application in Clinical Practice

• Testing & Supplements:

  • Salivary nitrite test strips can monitor nitrate levels.
  • Berkeley Life offers dietary nitrate capsules and Prebiotic nitrate gum.
  • Cognitive support product can help manage inflammation and oxidative stress.

• Practical Advice:

  • Ensuring adequate blood flow and oxygenation to the brain is essential.
  • Integrity of the oral microbiome is critical for the nitrate pathway.
  • Regular monitoring and tailored supplementation can aid in managing neuroimmune conditions.

Conclusion

• Key Takeaways:

  • Nitric oxide is foundational for neuroimmune health and chronic disease management.
  • Effective blood flow and nitric oxide signaling are essential for optimal brain function and protection.
  • Practitioners should be equipped with knowledge and tools to restore nitric oxide levels in patients.

• Final Note:

  • Health goes where blood flows, emphasizing the importance of proper blood flow and nitric oxide levels for overall wellbeing.