N-Acetylserotonin
N-Acetylserotonin (pronounced as: N-uh-see-til-ser-uh-toh-nin) is a naturally occurring chemical in the human body that is a precursor to the hormone melatonin. It is also known as NAS or normelatonin.
Etymology
The term N-Acetylserotonin is derived from its chemical structure, which includes an acetyl group (N-Acetyl-) and a serotonin molecule.
Chemical Structure and Function
N-Acetylserotonin is synthesized from the neurotransmitter serotonin through the action of the enzyme serotonin N-acetyltransferase. It is then converted into melatonin by the enzyme acetylserotonin O-methyltransferase.
N-Acetylserotonin plays a crucial role in the regulation of mood, sleep, and other physiological processes. It is also a potent antioxidant and has neuroprotective effects.
Related Terms
- Serotonin: A neurotransmitter that is involved in the regulation of mood, appetite, and sleep.
- Melatonin: A hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle.
- Serotonin N-acetyltransferase: An enzyme that converts serotonin into N-acetylserotonin.
- Acetylserotonin O-methyltransferase: An enzyme that converts N-acetylserotonin into melatonin.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on N-Acetylserotonin
- Wikipedia's article - N-Acetylserotonin
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