Biogenic amines
Biogenic Amines
Biogenic amines (pronunciation: /baɪoʊˈdʒɛnɪk ˈeɪmiːnz/) are organic compounds produced by living organisms that contain one or more basic nitrogen atoms. They are derived from amino acids and play a crucial role in biological functions.
Etymology
The term "biogenic" is derived from the Greek words "bios" meaning "life" and "genes" meaning "born". "Amine" comes from the Arabic word "al-amin" meaning "the resin", referring to the nitrogen-containing substance found in plants.
Types of Biogenic Amines
Biogenic amines can be classified into different types based on their chemical structure and biological function. Some of the most important types include:
- Serotonin: A neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, appetite, and sleep.
- Dopamine: A neurotransmitter involved in reward and motivation.
- Histamine: A compound involved in local immune responses and regulating physiological function in the gut.
- Epinephrine (also known as adrenaline): A hormone that increases heart rate, constricts blood vessels, dilates air passages and participates in the fight-or-flight response of the autonomic nervous system.
- Norepinephrine (also known as noradrenaline): A hormone and neurotransmitter involved in the body's stress response.
Role in Health and Disease
Biogenic amines play a crucial role in maintaining health and can contribute to disease when their levels are out of balance. For example, abnormal levels of serotonin and dopamine have been linked to mental health disorders such as depression and schizophrenia. High levels of histamine can cause allergic reactions, while low levels can lead to digestive problems.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Biogenic amines
- Wikipedia's article - Biogenic amines
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