Asymmetric dimethylarginine

Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) is a naturally occurring chemical found in blood plasma. It is a metabolic by-product of protein modification processes in the cells. ADMA is closely related to the amino acid L-arginine, a precursor of nitric oxide (NO), and plays a crucial role in the production of this important cellular signaling molecule.

ADMA is considered a marker for vascular endothelial dysfunction, which is often associated with several cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension, chronic heart failure, and atherosclerosis. It is also implicated in other conditions such as renal failure, diabetes, and pulmonary hypertension.

Biochemistry

ADMA is derived from proteins that have been post-translationally modified by the addition of methyl groups to the guanidine nitrogens of arginine residues. This process, known as arginine methylation, is carried out by a group of enzymes known as protein arginine methyltransferases (PRMTs).

ADMA is one of the products of this reaction, along with symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) and monomethylarginine (MMA). These molecules are released into the cytoplasm after proteolytic degradation of the parent proteins.

Physiological Role

ADMA inhibits the production of nitric oxide (NO) by competing with L-arginine for the active site of the enzyme nitric oxide synthase (NOS). NO is a crucial vasodilator, and reduced levels of NO in the blood vessels can lead to endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascular disease.

Clinical Significance

Elevated levels of ADMA in the blood plasma are associated with endothelial dysfunction, which is a key factor in the development of atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases. ADMA levels are also elevated in conditions such as renal failure, diabetes, and pulmonary hypertension.

See Also

• Nitric oxide
• L-arginine
• Protein arginine methyltransferases
• Atherosclerosis
• Endothelial dysfunction

References

Asymmetric dimethylarginine Resources
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