ADMA (asymmetric dimethylarginine) is a cardiovascular risk factor and an endogenous inhibitor of NOS (nitric oxide synthase). ADMA is metabolized by DDAHs (dimethylarginine dimethylaminohydrolases). ADMA levels are increased in cardiovascular disorders associated with abnormal angiogenesis but the mechanisms are poorly understood. Recent studies show that altering ADMA metabolism in vivo and in vitro modulates the activity of Rho GTPases, key regulators of actin dynamics, endothelial cell motility and angiogenesis. In the present review, we consider this and other NO-dependent and -independent molecular mechanisms by which the DDAH/ADMA pathway regulates angiogenesis.

Keywords:
angiogenesis, asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), dimethylarginine dimethylaminohydrolase (DDAH), motility, nitric oxide, Rho GTPase
© The Authors Journal compilation © 2009 Biochemical Society
2009
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