September 1, 2000Open Access
View Full PaperDoes ADMA Cause Endothelial Dysfunction?
Key Result
Elevated plasma levels of asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) are correlated with the severity of endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis, suggesting it may be a novel risk factor for vascular disease.
Structured PICO
Does ADMA cause endothelial dysfunction in patients with atherosclerosis?
P
Population
Patients with atherosclerosis and those with risk factors for atherosclerosis
E
Exposure
Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) exposure
O
Outcome
Endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis severitysurrogate
ADMA may serve as a novel risk factor for vascular disease by inhibiting nitric oxide production and impairing blood flow.
Abstract
Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) is an endogenous and competitive inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase. Plasma levels of this inhibitor are elevated in patients with atherosclerosis and in those with risk factors for atherosclerosis. In these patients, plasma ADMA levels are correlated with the severity of endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis. By inhibiting the production of nitric oxide, ADMA may impair blood flow, accelerate atherogenesis, and interfere with angiogenesis. ADMA may be a novel risk factor for vascular disease.