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Arginine (Arg) Unit Converter
Arginine (Arg) is a semi-essential (conditionally essential) amino acid involved in numerous metabolic pathways. It serves as a critical precursor for the synthesis of Nitric Oxide (NO), creatine, polyamines, and urea. In the Urea Cycle, arginine is hydrolyzed by the enzyme arginase to produce ornithine and urea, facilitating the removal of toxic ammonia from the body.[Image of urea cycle]
While healthy adults can synthesize sufficient arginine, it becomes essential during periods of rapid growth, trauma, or sepsis (catabolic states). Clinically, plasma arginine levels are measured to diagnose inborn errors of metabolism, particularly Arginase Deficiency (Hyperargininemia), and to assess nutritional status in critically ill patients. This converter allows precise switching between the standard molar unit (µmol/L) and mass-based units (mg/dL) used in nutritional panels.
SI Units
RecommendedMicromoles per liter (Standard International).
Conventional Units
Clinical Context
Arginine levels in healthy adults typically range from 40 – 140 µmol/L (0.7 – 2.4 mg/dL).
Markedly elevated levels (> 3-4 times upper limit) are diagnostic for Arginase Deficiency, a urea cycle disorder presenting with spastic diplegia and intellectual disability. Conversely, low arginine levels (< 20 µmol/L) are often seen in other urea cycle defects (like OTC deficiency) or severe sepsis, contributing to immune dysfunction and poor wound healing. The conversion factor is based on MW 174.20 g/mol: 1 mg/dL ≈ 57.4 µmol/L.
Clinical References
How to Use This Calculator
Follow these steps to get accurate clinical conversions instantly.
Enter Values
Input your laboratory results into the corresponding unit field (e.g., µmol/L). You can use either dot or comma decimals.
Automatic Conversion
The calculator works in real-time. As you type in one field, all other units (like mg/dL) are instantly updated.
Verify Units
Check the SI Units section. µmol/L is the standard unit for amino acid analysis.
Reset
Use the Clear button to reset all fields before starting a new calculation.
Frequently Asked Questions & Tips
1 mg/dL = 57.4 µmol/L. The molecular weight of Arginine is 174.2 g/mol.
It is crucial for diagnosing Urea Cycle Disorders (like Arginase deficiency) and monitoring treatment.