Jon M. Fukuto, Ph.D.
jfukuto@mednet.ucla.edu

Molecular & Medical Pharmacology

Research Interest:
Biochemistry structure of nitrogen oxide species

Currently we are investigating the chemistry and biochemistry of biologically produced nitrogen oxide species. More specifically, we are interested in the mechanism by which nitric oxide (NO) is biosynthesized, the fate and physiological role of endogenously generated NO and the biochemical mechanisms by which NO is released from nitrovasodilators. The general approach utilized in my laboratory to address these issues is primarily chemical in nature. Thus, the research involves the utilization of organic, inorganic, analytical and physical organic techniques. Recent work indicates that a variety of chemical reactions may occur in biological systems which determine the function and lifetime of NO. Thus, the physiological role of NO is a function of distinct chemical processes which are governed by the chemical nature of its physiological environment.

Publications:
Fukuto, J. M., Chiang, K., Hszieh, R., Wong, P. and Chaudhuri, G. (1992) The Pharmacological Properties of Nitroxyl (HNO): A Potent Vasodilator with Activity Similar to Nitric Oxide (NO) and/or Endothelium-Derived Relaxing Factor (EDRF). J. Pharmacol. Exp. Ther 263(2): 546-551.

Komori, Y., Wallace, G.C. and Fukuto, J.M. (1994) Synthase from Rat Cerebellum and Macrophage by L-Arginine Analogs. Arch. Biochem. Biophys. 315(2): 213-218.

Komori, Y., Chiang, K. T. and Fukuto, J. M. (1995) The Role of Thiols in the Apparent Activation of Rat Brain Nitric Oxide Synthase (NOS). J. Biochem 117: 923-927.