Abstract: The present invention provides assays in which intracellular chelators are used to alter the kinetics of signal generation triggered by divalent cations, particularly calcium influx into the cell. The use of an intracellular chelator in the assay can delay and prolong the signal, allowing the signal to be detected by automated instrumentation without the need for simultaneous liquid handling at the time of detection.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are compounds of Formula I ##STR1## and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof which have been found useful in the treatment of nitric oxide synthase mediated diseases and disorders, including neurodegenerative disorders, disorders of gastrointestinal motility and inflammation. These disease and disorders include hypotension, septic shock, toxic shock syndrom, hemodialysis, IL-2 therapy such as in cancer patients, cachexia, immunosuppression such as in transplant therapy, autoimmune and/or inflammatory indications including sunburn or psoriasis and respiratory conditions such as bronchitis, asthma, and acure respiratory distress (ARDS), myocarditis, heart failure, atherosclerosis, arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, chronic or inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, systemic lupus erythematosis (SLE), ocular conditions such as ocular hypertension and uveitis, type 1 diabetes, insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus and cystic fibrosis.