Page 204 - The Miracle of Hormones

THE MIRACLE OF HORMONES

Face to Face With Bacteria and Viruses

Earlier we mentioned that, although nitric oxide carries vital messa-
ges, it is also a poisonous molecule. So, the role of NO in the immune sys-
tem is related to its poisonous qualities. This molecule is secreted by
macrophages, which are important in the body's immune system. Recall
that macrophages are microorganisms 0.01 of a millimeter in size. By a
process called phagocytosis, they remove (swallow) bacteria and mole-
cules, which are dangerous for our bodies. When a macrophage meets
germs or bacteria that cause sickness, it surrounds them; afterwards, the
bacteria that are embraced on every side by the macrophages are subject-
ed to a bombardment of nitric oxide. In this way, nitric oxide molecules
start a reaction to destroy the bacteria. Certainly, the cooperation be-
tween nitric oxide and macrophages is one of the countless proofs of the
harmonious creation.
The NO molecules have another interesting role in the immune sys-
tem. Research has shown that NO renders the "protease" enzyme found
in some viruses ineffective. This enzyme breaks down big proteins into
small parts that are used in the production of new viruses. NO puts this
enzyme out of operation, preventing the virus from multiplying.
Tiny molecules find other molecules in a body that they have never
before encountered and know very well how to neutralize their effects.

In this way, people can be rescued from great dangers that they were not
even aware of. It is very clear that all this order and connection among
molecules cannot be the result of chance. God, the Lord of the universe,
has given the NO molecules their function and created them with their
special qualities.
Research in this field continues, and it is thought that, in the near fu-
ture, scientists will be able to use nitric oxide in the fight against cancer.
Each new bit of information that comes to light will show once again that
this molecule is a product of extraordinary design.
Every day, the nitric oxide molecule is subject of new research, and
the results of this research amaze even scientists. What is known at this

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