THE ROLE OF ASYMMETRIC DIMETHYLARGININE IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF CARDIOVASCULAR DISEAS

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.