cathecolamine

Catecholamines are a group of monoamine compounds that function as hormones and neurotransmitters in the body. The primary catecholamines are epinephrine, norepinephrine, and dopamine. They are synthesized from the amino acid tyrosine.

Epinephrine, also known as adrenaline, is primarily produced by the adrenal medulla and is released into the bloodstream in response to stress or excitement, playing a key role in the fight-or-flight response. It increases heart rate, blood pressure, and glucose metabolism.

Norepinephrine, also known as noradrenaline, is synthesized in the adrenal medulla and also acts as a neurotransmitter in the central and sympathetic nervous systems. It is involved in regulating alertness, arousal, and attention.

Dopamine is a crucial neurotransmitter in the brain, involved in reward, motivation, pleasure, and motor control. Dysregulation of dopamine pathways is implicated in various neurological and psychiatric disorders, including Parkinson's disease and schizophrenia.

The term catecholamine refers to their chemical structure, which includes a catechol group (a benzene ring with two adjacent hydroxyl groups) and an amine group. They are metabolized in the body by enzymes such as monoamine oxidase (MAO) and catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT).