nutrient
Arginine
An amino acid used in protein and nitrogen disposal.
Arginine supplies nitrogen for urea formation and is also a substrate for nitric-oxide synthesis. Demand can change with growth and physiological stress.
A substrate for two pathways
The urea cycle converts nitrogen associated with arginine into urea for excretion. A different enzyme, nitric-oxide synthase, uses arginine to make nitric oxide.
Related topics
Arginine is used to build Protein
Arginine is one of the amino acids used to assemble proteins.
Worth knowing
It can become conditionally essential. The body usually makes arginine, but production may not cover demand during growth or major physiological stress.
A closer look
Enzymes determine its route
Arginine can enter nitrogen disposal or nitric-oxide synthesis depending on which enzymes and tissues handle it.
References
Source-checked local draft.
Human editorial review pending.
- NIH National Library of MedicineBiochemistry, Essential Amino AcidsChecked 2026-09-05
- NIH National Library of MedicineBiochemistry, Protein CatabolismChecked 2026-09-05
- NIH Office of Dietary SupplementsDietary Supplements for Exercise and Athletic Performance - Health Professional Fact SheetChecked 2026-09-05