l-norvaline

**L-norvaline** is a non-proteinogenic amino acid, structurally analogous to valine but possessing a linear side chain rather than branched. It naturally occurs in trace amounts and can be biosynthesized through transamination of α-ketovaleric acid or via supplementation. L-norvaline is investigated primarily for its ability to **potently inhibit arginase** (ARG1 and ARG2), thereby increasing L-arginine levels and enhancing nitric oxide synthesis, which is beneficial for vascular health and implicated in neuroprotection, antihypertensive, and anti-inflammatory effects. In preclinical studies, especially in Alzheimer's disease mouse models, l-norvaline reverses cognitive decline, reduces beta-amyloid plaque formation, suppresses neuroinflammation, and activates multiple neuroprotective cell signaling pathways (including ERK/MAPK, PI3K/AKT, and VEGF), alongside upregulating neurotrophic factors like GDNF and nerve growth factor. L-norvaline is commonly used as a dietary supplement in sports nutrition to support recovery and muscle endurance. It is considered investigational in pharmaceutical contexts, including for metabolic disorders and pulmonary fibrosis. At high in vitro concentrations, cytotoxicity has been observed, but physiological doses appear well-tolerated in vivo[1][3][5][6].

Other names

norvaline(S)-2-aminopentanoic acid2-aminopentanoic acid2-aminovaleric acidl-2-aminopentanoic acidl2-aminopentanoic acidl 2-aminopentanoic acidl-2-aminovaleric acidl2-aminovaleric acidl 2-aminovaleric acidNVALL-Nva-OHL-NVal-OHH-L-NVA-OHL-NORALINE