NITRIC OXIDE | NOS3 (rs2070744)

If you have the CC genotype for rs2070744, you carry two copies of the effect allele. This variant has been associated with a slightly increased risk of coronary artery disease. The NOS3 gene encodes an enzyme required to make nitric oxide in endothelial cells, the cells that line your arteries. Variations like CC may reduce how efficiently your body produces nitric oxide, which can affect blood vessel relaxation and blood pressure regulation.

What this means for you

• This finding indicates a potential area to focus on for cardiovascular prevention. It is not a diagnosis and does not mean you will develop coronary artery disease.
• Combining genetics with lifestyle strategies that support nitric oxide may be particularly helpful.

Practical recommendations

• Increase intake of nitrate-rich vegetables, especially leafy greens and beets, to support dietary pathways that generate nitric oxide.
• Prioritize regular physical activity. Aim for a mix of moderate aerobic exercise and strength training several times per week.
• Work on stress reduction techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to protect endothelial function.
• Stop smoking and avoid secondhand smoke to prevent damage to the cells that produce nitric oxide.
• Discuss with your healthcare provider whether targeted supplements such as L-arginine or beetroot extract are appropriate for you, and review any medication interactions.
• Keep routine cardiovascular screening appointments to monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, and other risk factors.

If you have the CT genotype for rs2070744, you carry one copy of the effect allele. This variant has been associated with a moderately increased risk of coronary artery disease. The NOS3 gene produces the enzyme that helps make nitric oxide in endothelial cells. Your CT genotype may slightly influence how effectively your body generates nitric oxide, with potential impacts on blood vessel function.

What this means for you

• This result indicates a modest genetic tendency but does not determine your cardiovascular outcome. Lifestyle and environment remain key drivers of risk.
• Supporting nitric oxide production can be a practical way to reduce overall cardiovascular risk.

Practical recommendations

• Focus on a plant-forward diet with regular servings of nitrate-rich foods like spinach, arugula, and beets.
• Maintain consistent physical activity, including brisk walking, cycling, swimming, or resistance training.
• Adopt healthy sleep habits and stress management to protect your vascular system.
• Avoid smoking and limit excessive alcohol intake.
• Talk with your healthcare provider about whether supplements such as L-arginine or dietary nitrate products might be useful and safe for you.
• Monitor blood pressure and lipid levels and follow recommended screening intervals.

If you have the TT genotype for rs2070744, you carry two copies of the non-effect allele. This genotype is the most common and is associated with typical nitric oxide production capacity. The NOS3 gene provides standard instructions for making the enzyme that creates nitric oxide in endothelial cells. With typical production capacity, your risk related to this specific pathway is not elevated.

What this means for you

• This genotype suggests standard nitric oxide production via the NOS3 pathway. It is not a guarantee of perfect cardiovascular health because many other factors influence risk.
• Maintaining habits that support nitric oxide is still important for long-term heart health.

Practical recommendations

• Continue eating a varied, plant-rich diet that includes nitrate-rich vegetables periodically.
• Stay active with regular aerobic and strength-building exercise.
• Practice stress reduction and prioritize quality sleep.
• Avoid smoking and manage other cardiovascular risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and high blood sugar.
• Discuss any supplement use with your healthcare provider to ensure safety and appropriateness.