Abstract: It has been demonstrated that the level of asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) increases in women that subsequently develop pre-eclampsia or whose fetus subsequently develops intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and that ADMA plays a key role in the development of maternal hypertension. Accordingly, the level of ADMA in a pregnant woman can be used to determine whether or not a pregnant woman is at risk of developing pre-eclampsia or whether or not a fetus is at risk of developing IUGR. Furthermore, antagonists of ADMA activity are useful in the inhibition or prevention of pre-eclampsia or inhibition or prevention of IUGR.

Abstract: Two dimethylarginine dimethylaminohydrolase (DDAH) genes have been cloned from humans. These genes can be used to screen for inhibitors and activators of activity and/or expression of DDAHs. Inhibitors and activators of activity and/or expression of DDAHs are useful in the treatment of conditions in which abnormal metabolism of nitric oxide is implicated.