Desferrioxamine inhibits protein tyrosine nitration: Mechanisms and implications

► DFO robustly inhibits tyrosine nitration (3-NT) independent of Fe chelation. ► The mechanism likely involves tyrosyl radical repair preventing NO2 addition. ► More facile reactants scavenge NO2 but lose 3-NT inhibition due to consumption. ► DFO effectively inhibits 3-NT in both aqueous and hydrophobic compartments. ► DFO multifunctionalities should be considered during its reagent and clinical use.