catecolaminérgico

Catecolaminérgico refers to substances or processes related to catecholamines. Catecholamines are a group of monoamine compounds that act as hormones and neurotransmitters. The most well-known catecholamines include dopamine, norepinephrine (noradrenaline), and epinephrine (adrenaline). These substances are synthesized from the amino acid tyrosine and play crucial roles in the body's "fight-or-flight" response, mood regulation, motor control, and various other physiological functions.

A catecolaminérgico system involves the synthesis, release, action, and reuptake of these neurochemicals. For example, the sympathetic nervous system heavily relies on catecolaminérgico pathways, utilizing norepinephrine and epinephrine to increase heart rate, blood pressure, and glucose metabolism in response to stress. Dopamine, another key catecholamine, is involved in reward pathways, motivation, and fine motor movements. Dysfunction within catecolaminérgico systems is implicated in various neurological and psychiatric conditions such as Parkinson's disease, depression, and addiction. Therapeutic interventions often target these pathways, for instance, by using drugs that affect catecholamine levels or receptor binding. The term can also describe drugs or treatments that stimulate or mimic the effects of catecholamines.