The kinetics of S-transnitrosation--a reversible second-order reaction.

Transnitrosation between thiols and S-nitrosothiols has been suggested to be a mechanism of signal transduction. This kinetics of such reactions fit well to a reversible second-order model. Parameters derived from this model give both the forward and reverse rate constants and the equilibrium position at physiological temperature and pH. In addition, methods are shown for calculating the equilibrium distribution of the nitrosyl function group in mixtures of up to three thiols.