12th International Symposium on Nitric Oxide: “Back to the Future”
From 29 September to 1 October 2025, the 12th international symposium devoted to the role of nitric oxide in regulating physiological and pathophysiological processes took place in the picturesque Moravian Karst, in Jedovnice. The event was organized by the civic association NO club in cooperation with the International Society for Pathophysiology and the Slovak Physiological Society.
The symposium’s subtitle, “Back to the Future,” expressed an effort to return to the beginnings of nitric oxide research, to evaluate which original hypotheses and theories have been confirmed and which still await verification. Participants recalled the first symposia held in the late 1990s and discussed how knowledge about the “miracle molecule” nitric oxide has evolved over the past quarter-century - with the aim of bringing new perspectives and inspiration for future research.
Building on a tradition that began in Bratislava in 1999, the symposium brought together scientists from several countries to discuss new findings on cardiovascular, metabolic, and neurophysiological regulation mediated by nitric oxide. The opening sessions focused on nitric oxide’s role in blood pressure regulation and its interactions with the renin–angiotensin system, autonomic regulation, and redox mechanisms. The second day addressed nitric oxide’s role in various metabolic and pathological states - from obesity to carcinogenesis. The afternoon session was devoted to neuroplasticity and mental health, linking knowledge about nitric oxide’s role in the brain with the philosophical roots of knowledge. The final day centered on a discussion of the redox paradox of polyphenols and their role in metabolic syndrome and depression.
A group excursion to the Punkva Cave in the Moravian Karst took place in a spirit of good scientific camaraderie and heralded new collaborations and projects that may yield original results. The symposium maintained its traditionally friendly atmosphere and confirmed that nitric oxide remains a fascinating and ever-relevant subject of scientific inquiry.
Prepared by: Oľga Pecháňová, Jana Kimijanová, Institute of Normal and Pathological Physiology of the Centre of Experimental Medicine, SAS
Poto: Oľga Pecháňová