FIG. 6.

Peroxynitrite formation in β cells and protection from nitric oxide. β cells do not generate superoxide (O₂⁻) and thus peroxynitrite (ONOO⁻) during cytokine treatment. Chemical generation of superoxide leads to the scavenging of nitric oxide, formation of peroxynitrite, and loss of nitric oxide-dependent effects. Thus, β cells are resistant to peroxynitrite, and under conditions where peroxynitrite is formed, β cells are protected from nitric oxide-induced damage. ATP, adenosine triphosphate.