monoaminelor

Monoamines are a class of organic compounds that are derived from the amino acid tryptophan and tyrosine, and consist of an amine group (NH2) attached to an alkyl chain. They are neurotransmitters and hormones that play a significant role in the nervous system and other bodily functions.

The major monoamine neurotransmitters include dopamine, norepinephrine, serotonin, and histamine. These compounds are synthesized in the brain and released by neurons to transmit signals to other cells. They are involved in a wide range of processes, such as mood regulation, reward, motivation, attention, and sleep.

Dopamine is associated with pleasure, motivation, and motor control. Norepinephrine is involved in the body's "fight or flight" response, alertness, and attention. Serotonin is crucial for mood stabilization, appetite, and sleep. Histamine acts as a neurotransmitter and plays a role in wakefulness and immune responses.

The breakdown of monoamines is primarily carried out by enzymes like monoamine oxidase (MAO) and catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT). This enzymatic degradation helps to regulate the levels of monoamines in the synapse, ensuring proper signal termination. Imbalances in monoamine levels are implicated in various neurological and psychiatric disorders, including depression, Parkinson's disease, and schizophrenia. Medications that target monoamine systems, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are commonly used to treat these conditions.