Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA)

Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) is a naturally occurring small molecule produced by the methylation of arginine residues within proteins via protein arginine methyltransferases, released during normal protein turnover[1][3][5]. ADMA is an endogenous competitive inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase (NOS), the key enzyme for nitric oxide production in endothelial cells. By inhibiting NOS, ADMA reduces nitric oxide bioavailability, disrupts normal endothelial function, and promotes vascular dysfunction, thus serving as a risk marker for cardiovascular and metabolic diseases[5][7][6][1]. ADMA is metabolized predominantly by dimethylarginine dimethylaminohydrolase (DDAH) to citrulline and dimethylamine. Elevated ADMA levels are associated with increased risk for atherosclerosis, hypertension, renal failure, and other conditions, making plasma ADMA an important diagnostic biomarker[3][7][6]. Manipulation of the ADMA-DDAH-NO pathway is under investigation as a therapeutic approach, primarily in cardiovascular and peripheral artery disease[4][5].

Other names

Asymmetric dimethylarginineADMAN,N-dimethylarginine

Competitive inhibition of nitric oxide synthase (NOS), reducing nitric oxide bioavailability[5][7] Therapeutic manipulation (e.g., L-arginine supplementation) restores nitric oxide signaling[5] DDAH upregulation reduces ADMA concentrations, improves endothelial function[4]