Abstract:
Since its first description as
an inhibitor of NO synthesis in 1992, there
has been accumulating evidence that ADMA
plays an important role as a regulator of NO
production in the endothelium. Experimental
data from cell culture and animal experiments
and cross-sectional studies in humans
suggest an association between elevated
ADMA concentrations and cardiovascular
diseases. ADMA is a new cardiovascular risk
factor associated with a spectrum of clinical
situations characterized by impaired nitric oxide
production. Despite clinical and experimental
evidence of the relationship between increased
plasma ADMA levels and endothelial dysfunction
and the risk of developing cardiovascular
complications, the causal role of ADMA in the
pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases has
not yet been proven. To answer the question of
whether ADMA is a marker of cardiovascular
disease or an etiological factor, a comprehensive
biochemical, genetic and pharmacological
approach is required.
