ADMA, SDMA, L-arginine and nitric oxide in allergic pediatric bronchial asthma

Published data regarding asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA), L-arginine (L-ARG) and nitric oxide fraction in exhaled air (FeNO) in pediatric bronchial asthma are limited. Many question remain open about plasma concentration of these substances. The aim of this study was to evaluate ADMA, SDMA, L-ARG and FeNO concentration in allergic pediatric mild asthmatic patients respect to healthy subjects. Methods: In this case-control study 60 children (50 asthmatics and 10 healthy) underwent complete clinical visit, baseline respiratory function, allergic tests and biochemical analyses. The statistical significance of the different concentrations between the two groups were studied using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). A p value < 0.05 was considered statistical significant. Results: The mean plasma ADMA (0.58 vs 0.68 µmol/L), SDMA (0.40 vs 0.45 µmol/L) and L-ARG (52.2 vs 74.13 µmol/L) concentration were significantly lower (p<0.001) in the asthmatic patients respect to healthy subjects (control group). The concentration of FeNO was significantly higher in the asthmatic subjects respect to control group (4.2 vs 9.18 µmol/L; p<0.001). Conclusions: Low plasma concentrations of ADMA, SDMA, L-ARG and high concentration of FeNO are associated with bronchial asthma and indicated an important role in airway disease through NO metabolism