eNOS uncoupling
TL;DR
eNOS uncoupling is a dysfunctional endothelial state where endothelial nitric oxide synthase produces superoxide instead of nitric oxide. This shifts the system from vasoprotection toward oxidative stress.
Why it matters for Vitals
This is one of the main mechanistic reasons repeated glucose spikes are not metabolically neutral. Even if average glucose looks acceptable, repeated excursions can still create vascular stress.
Key idea
- healthy eNOS → nitric oxide signaling and vasodilation
- uncoupled eNOS → oxidative stress amplification and endothelial dysfunction