Xanthine Oxidoreductase Mediates Nitrite-Induced Platelet Inhibition

Xanthine oxidoreductase (XOR) is a potential missing link in platelet hyperactivity and cardiovascular diseases. Bioconversion of NO2- to NO by XOR modulates platelet reactivity as we observed rises in plasma NO2- levels after Xdh allele deletion in mice. This higher plasma NO2- in Xdh heterozygous mice was associated with greater platelet reactivity demonstrated in a tail bleeding, thrombus formation, and platelet aggregation study. There is also a potential of nitrate on platelet inhibition in wild-type mice, which developed smaller thrombus formation.