As the principal endogenous inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase, ADMA (asymmetric dimethylarginine), regulates rates of nitric oxide (NO) formation. Nitric oxide acts as a signal molecule in the nervous system, as a weapon against infections, as a regulator of blood pressure, and as a gate keeper of blood flow to the organs. Elevated ADMA has been associated with various cardiovascular risk factors, renal failure, and erectile dysfunction. Factors contributing to elevated ADMA include increased oxidative challenge and folic acid insufficiency.
Because independent studies have shown that: