arginine metabolic process

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The chemical reactions and pathways involving arginine, 2-amino-5-(carbamimidamido)pentanoic acid. [GOC:go_curators]

Arginine metabolic process is a fundamental pathway in cellular metabolism, encompassing the synthesis, degradation, and utilization of the amino acid arginine. Arginine is a key component of proteins, plays a crucial role in the urea cycle, and serves as a precursor for the biosynthesis of nitric oxide (NO), a signaling molecule involved in various physiological processes.

**Arginine synthesis:**

* Arginine can be synthesized de novo from glutamate and aspartate through the urea cycle.
* Alternatively, it can be obtained from the diet or derived from the breakdown of proteins.

**Arginine degradation:**

* Arginine is catabolized primarily through the urea cycle, where it is converted to urea and ornithine.
* The urea cycle is essential for the detoxification of ammonia, a toxic byproduct of protein metabolism.
* Arginine can also be degraded by arginase, producing ornithine and urea.

**Arginine utilization:**

* Arginine serves as a precursor for the synthesis of nitric oxide (NO) by nitric oxide synthase (NOS).
* NO is a potent signaling molecule involved in vasodilation, neurotransmission, immune response, and other physiological processes.
* Arginine is also a substrate for the synthesis of creatine, a molecule essential for muscle energy production.
* Additionally, arginine is involved in the synthesis of polyamines, which are essential for cell growth and proliferation.

**Regulation of arginine metabolism:**

* The activity of key enzymes involved in arginine metabolism, such as arginase and NOS, is regulated by various factors, including hormones, nutrients, and cellular signals.
* Arginine availability and demand also influence the rate of arginine metabolism.

**Clinical significance:**

* Deficiencies in arginine metabolism can lead to various health issues, including urea cycle disorders, hyperammonemia, and nitric oxide deficiency.
* Arginine supplementation has been explored for its potential therapeutic benefits in conditions such as cardiovascular disease, erectile dysfunction, and wound healing.

**In summary, arginine metabolic process is a complex and essential pathway that plays a vital role in cellular function, protein metabolism, detoxification, and signal transduction. It is tightly regulated and dysregulation of this pathway can have significant health consequences.**'
"

Proteins (1)

Compounds (18)