L-arginine added to the culture media at
physiological (200 μmol/L) and supraphysiological
concentrations (800 μmol/L) enhanced endometrial
RL95-2 cell proliferation through mechanisms mediated
by NO and polyamine biosynthesis and by reducing
endometrial RL95-2 cell apoptosis through the phosphorylation
of BAD protein. Cell proliferation is an
important process in the human endometrium, as the
endometrial epithelium must regenerate following the
losses experienced during menstruation in preparation
for the attachment and implantation of a potential embryo.
Accordingly, the findings of the present study demonstrate
a role for L-arginine in the regulation of endometrial
growth and apoptosis. Moreover, a supraphysiological
concentration of L-arginine had no negative effects on the
parameters measured, revealing a possible beneficial effect
of dietary L-arginine supplementation on endometrial
growth.
