L-dopa

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L-DOPA

L-DOPA (pronounced el-doh-puh), also known as levodopa (pronounced lee-voh-doh-puh), is a chemical that is made and used as part of the normal biology of humans, some animals and plants. It is an amino acid that is made and used as part of the normal biology of humans, as well as some animals and plants.

Etymology

The term "L-DOPA" is derived from its chemical name, L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine. The "L" refers to the levorotatory stereoisomer of DOPA.

Usage

In humans, L-DOPA is the precursor to the neurotransmitters dopamine, norepinephrine (noradrenaline), and epinephrine (adrenaline) collectively known as catecholamines. Furthermore, L-DOPA itself mediates neurotrophic factor release by the brain and CNS.

L-DOPA is used in the clinical treatment of Parkinson's disease and dopamine-responsive dystonia. When used in a pharmaceutical context, the INN designation 'levodopa' is normally used.

Related Terms

  • Dopamine: A type of neurotransmitter, a chemical messenger that transmits signals in the brain and other areas of the body.
  • Norepinephrine: A hormone and neurotransmitter that is important for attentiveness, emotions, sleeping, dreaming, and learning.
  • Epinephrine: Also known as adrenaline, a hormone secreted by the medulla of the adrenal glands, aiding in the fight-or-flight response.
  • Catecholamines: A group of similar compounds which include dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine.
  • Parkinson's disease: A long-term degenerative disorder of the nervous system that mainly affects the motor system.
  • Dopamine-responsive dystonia: A condition characterized by involuntary muscle contractions, tremors, and other uncontrolled movements (dystonia).

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