Endothelial Dysfunction Induced by Hyperhomocyst(e)inemia–Role of Asymmetric Dimethylarginine
We’ve come across asymmetrical dimethylarginine (ADMA) previously. Basically, nitric oxide is a small molecule that has many functions, one of which is dilation of blood vessels to increase blood flow (ala nitroglycerin tablets, Viagra…). ADMA is nitric oxide’s arch enemy–the more ADMA, the less effective nitric oxide can be.
We are finding that insulin resistance disables the enzyme that breads down ADMA, effectively raising levels of ADMA and inhibiting nitric oxide vasodilation. The result?? High blood pressure.
Circulation — Abstracts: Stühlinger et al. 108 (8): 933