The aim of this pilot study is to determine whether the cardioprotective effects of sodium nitrite demonstrated in animal models are translated in humans and to determine the exact underlying mechanisms of this cytoprotection. Patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting surgery who give written, informed consent will receive sodium nitrite 24 hours prior to surgery, during cardiac surgery or placebo. Myocardial injury will be assessed through the measurement of biochemical markers such as troponin T. Cardiac biopsy samples will be obtained to determine underlying molecular mechanisms of this cardioprotection. The other aim of this pilot study is to determine what dose of sodium nitrite (i.e. 0.2mcg/kg/min or 1mcg/kg/min) is optimal for cardioprotection. This study will form pilot data also for a larger clinical trial with clinical endpoints.