Asymmetric dimethylarginine—nature, analytical methods for determination, and clinical applications

Аsymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) is a major endogenous and competitive inhibitor of nitric oxide (NO) synthesis. Reduced production and/or bioavailability of NO is considered the central mechanism responsible for endothelial dysfunction (ED) that precedes atherosclerosis manifestation. Аsymmetric dimethylarginine is a promising biomarker and a risk factor for cardiovascular desease (CVD). Elevated plasma concentrations of ADMA are associated with numerous CVD and metabolic diseases. This study aimed to review the current knowledge about biology and clinical implication of ADMA as a new class biomarker. A summary analysis of currently validated analytical methods for the determination of serum and plasma ADMA was performed.