A potent and selective inhibitor of heme oxygenase, the enzyme which generates carbon monoxide (CO) and biliverdin. Inhibits soluble guanylyl cyclase and produces a time- and concentration-dependent inactivation of all three isoforms of nitric oxide synthase (IC50 = 800 nM, 4 μM, and 5 μM for nNOS, iNOS, and eNOS, respectively). Inhibits relaxation induced by acetylcholine, ANP, and VIP in isolated rat aorta. Blocks interleukin-1 and prevents induction of long-term potentiation. Also useful as an indicator of iron-deficient erythropoiesis. Does not cross the blood-brain barrier.
