Homoarginine in the cardiovascular system: Pathophysiology and recent developments

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Cardiology
• Pathophysiology

Background:

• L-homoarginine (L-hArg), a non-proteinogenic amino acid, is emerging as a significant factor in cardiovascular health.
• Low L-hArg levels correlate with increased cardiovascular events and mortality.
• L-hArg plays a role in the pathogenesis of cardiac dysfunction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review L-hArg metabolism and its pathophysiological implications.
• To summarize current experimental and clinical evidence regarding L-hArg's cardiovascular effects.
• To highlight L-hArg's potential as a biomarker and therapeutic agent for cardiovascular disease.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of experimental and epidemiological data.
• Analysis of studies on L-hArg metabolism and its role in cardiac dysfunction.
• Examination of clinical evidence for L-hArg's impact on the cardiorenal axis.

Main Results:

• L-hArg is identified as a novel biomarker for cardiovascular disease.
• Evidence suggests L-hArg is involved in the pathogenesis of cardiac dysfunction.
• Nutritional supplementation of L-hArg is proposed to counteract adverse cardiovascular pathways.

Conclusions:

• L-hArg holds potential as both a biomarker and a cardiovascular-active agent.
• Further research into L-hArg metabolism and supplementation may lead to improved cardiovascular risk stratification and treatment.
• Establishing reliable biomarkers like L-hArg is crucial for personalized cardiovascular medicine.