Which of the following amino acids is a precursor to the synthesis of nitric oxide?

A Arginine ✓
B Glutamate
C Aspartate
D Lysine

Explanation

Arginine is a precursor to the synthesis of nitric oxide, a molecule involved in many physiological processes, including vasodilation and neurotransmission.

Mnemonic

'Arg' = 'argument' for nitric oxide synthesis

Source

Nelson et al., Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry
Protein Metabolism Biochemistry Amino Acid Metabolism Hard MEDICAL Confidence: high