COMTentsyymeillä
COMTentsyymeillä, also known as catechol-O-methyltransferase, is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the metabolism of catecholamines and certain other compounds in the human body. It belongs to the methyltransferase family and is primarily found in the liver, kidneys, and brain. The main function of COMT is to catalyze the transfer of a methyl group from S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) to the hydroxyl group of a catecholamine. This process, known as O-methylation, inactivates the catecholamine, making it easier for the body to excrete.
Catecholamines are neurotransmitters such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. By metabolizing these neurotransmitters, COMT influences their
Beyond catecholamines, COMT also metabolizes other compounds, including certain medications and environmental estrogens. Its role in