Effects of asymmetric dimethylarginine, L-arginine and L-citrulline on the cardiovascular system

Abstract

Objective: To identify the present effects of asymmetric dimethylarginine, L-arginine and L-citrulline on the cardiovascular system. Methods: This is an integrative review carried out in September 2021, in the Pubmed database. The keywords ADMA, L-arginine, L-citrulline and N-Methyl arginine (L-NMMA) and cardiovascular system were crossed, 10 articles were selected. Results: L-Arginine helps in the process of vascularization and vasodilation, aiding in the acceleration of angiogenesis. L-Citrulline supplementation alone enhances the availability of L-arginine and the synthesis of NO in young and elderly individuals with heart failure (HF). However, L-Citrulline supplementation was ineffective in improving vascular endothelial dysfunction in older adults with HF. L-Arginine combined with L-Citrulline is beneficial for blood pressure and standard cardiovascular physiology. The synthesis of nitric oxide (NO) is affected when there is a higher presence of asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) in the plasma. Under such circumstances, aggravations occur as NOS is involved in processes such as inflammation, the immune system, endothelial function, and vasodilation. Final considerations: It was found that the potentialities related to the use of these substrates highlight their weaknesses, however, ADMA showed potential for obvious harm in a greater proportion.  The effects of L-arginine, adjunct to L-citrulline, showed a possible potential for corrections in small blood vessels due to the high vasodilator potential.