MAOentsyymejä

MAOentsyymejä, or monoamine oxidase enzymes, are a group of enzymes found in the body. They are primarily involved in the breakdown of monoamines, which are a class of neurotransmitters and other biologically active amines. These enzymes play a crucial role in regulating the levels of these important molecules in the brain and other tissues.

There are two main types of MAO enzymes: monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) and monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B). While both enzymes break down monoamines, they have different substrate preferences and tissue distribution. MAO-A is primarily involved in the metabolism of serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine, and is found in the liver, intestines, and brain. MAO-B predominantly metabolizes dopamine, phenylethylamine, and benzylamine, and is also found in the brain, as well as platelets and astrocytes.

The activity of MAO enzymes is important for maintaining normal physiological functions. For instance, the regulation of neurotransmitter levels by MAO is linked to mood, sleep, and attention. Inhibitors of MAO enzymes, known as MAO inhibitors, are a class of drugs used in the treatment of certain medical conditions. These include depression and Parkinson's disease. By inhibiting the breakdown of monoamines, MAO inhibitors can increase the availability of these neurotransmitters, thereby exerting their therapeutic effects. However, MAO inhibitors can also interact with certain foods and medications, requiring careful monitoring by healthcare professionals.