homovanilinsyre

Homovanillic acid, often abbreviated as HVA, is a naturally occurring compound in the human body. It is a major metabolite of dopamine, a crucial neurotransmitter involved in reward, motivation, and motor control. The metabolic pathway leading to HVA involves the enzymatic breakdown of dopamine. Dopamine is first converted to 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) by monoamine oxidase (MAO) and then further metabolized by catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) to HVA.

HVA is primarily excreted in the urine, making it a useful biomarker for assessing dopamine turnover in the brain and other tissues. Elevated levels of HVA in urine have been associated with conditions like Parkinson's disease and schizophrenia, although these associations are complex and not always definitive. Conversely, reduced levels can sometimes be observed in certain neurological disorders. HVA also plays a role in other biological processes, and research continues to explore its full physiological significance. Its presence and levels are routinely measured in clinical settings for diagnostic and monitoring purposes, particularly in the evaluation of certain neuroendocrine tumors and neurological conditions.