Arginine residues are found in many proteins. The codons CGU, CGC, CGA, CGG, AGA, and AGG are used to encode it. The guanidine group in arginine is a precursor for nitric oxide production.
The codons CGU, CGC, CGA, CGG, AGA, and AGG are used to encode it. Depending on the developmental stage and health situation of the individual, arginine is classed as a semi essential or conditionally essential amino acid. Because preterm newborns are unable to synthesize or generate arginine on their own, it is a nutritional necessity for them.