An essential amino acid normally synthesized in the kidney and is a constituent of the urea cycle.
Plays a role in protein synthesis, high energy compounds creatine and creatine phosphate, polyamine and nitric oxide.
Produces a vasorelaxation effect, and supplementation is useful in lowering pulmonary hypertension.
May increase natural killer cell and lymphocyte activated cell cytotoxicity.
May reduce infections in critically ill patients, reduce ventilator days, shorter hospital stays and reduce mortality.
Oral supplementation with arginine results in faster reduction of pain associated with vaso-occlusive episodes among young patients with sickle cell disease.