Monoamine oxidase A
Monoamine oxidase A
Monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) is an enzyme that in humans is encoded by the MAOA gene. It is one of two monoamine oxidases (MAOs), the other being monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B).
Pronunciation
Monoamine oxidase A is pronounced as /ˌmɒnoʊˈæmiːn ˈɒksɪdeɪz eɪ/
Etymology
The term "monoamine oxidase A" is derived from the function of the enzyme. "Monoamine" refers to the type of chemicals it acts upon, "oxidase" refers to its function of oxidizing these chemicals, and "A" differentiates it from the other type of monoamine oxidase, MAO-B.
Function
MAO-A is an important enzyme in the metabolism of monoamines, specifically the neurotransmitters serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. It works by oxidizing these neurotransmitters, breaking them down and regulating their levels in the brain.
Related Terms
- Monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B): The other type of monoamine oxidase, which has a similar function but acts on different neurotransmitters.
- Neurotransmitter: A type of chemical messenger which transmits signals across a chemical synapse.
- Serotonin: A neurotransmitter that contributes to feelings of well-being and happiness.
- Norepinephrine: A neurotransmitter involved in the body's stress response.
- Dopamine: A neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward.
See Also
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitor: A type of drug that inhibits the action of monoamine oxidases, used in the treatment of depression and anxiety disorders.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Monoamine oxidase A
- Wikipedia's article - Monoamine oxidase A
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