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A catecholamine (/ ˌ k æ t ə ˈ k oʊ l ə m iː n /; abbreviated CA) is a monoamine neurotransmitter, an organic compound that has a catechol (benzene with two hydroxyl side groups next to each other) and a side-chain amine. [1] Catechol can be either a free molecule or a substituent of a larger molecule, where it represents a 1,2 ...
Catecholaminergic means "related to catecholamines". The catecholamine neurotransmitters include dopamine , epinephrine (adrenaline), and norepinephrine (noradrenaline). A catecholaminergic agent (or drug ) is a chemical which functions to directly modulate the catecholamine systems in the body or brain.
These are drugs whose primary effects are thought to be mediated by different neurotransmitter systems (dopamine for stimulants, serotonin for antidepressants), but many also increase levels of norepinephrine in the brain. [53] Amphetamine, for example, is a stimulant that increases release of norepinephrine as well as dopamine. [54]
A dopamine molecule consists of a catechol structure (a benzene ring with two hydroxyl side groups) with one amine group attached via an ethyl chain. [14] As such, dopamine is the simplest possible catecholamine, a family that also includes the neurotransmitters norepinephrine and epinephrine. [15]
Catecholaminergic cell groups refers to collections of neurons in the central nervous system that have been demonstrated by histochemical fluorescence to contain one of the neurotransmitters dopamine or norepinephrine. Thus, it represents the combination of dopaminergic cell groups and noradrenergic cell groups. [1]
Sympathomimetic drugs are used to treat cardiac arrest and low blood pressure, or even delay premature labor, among other things. These drugs can act through several mechanisms, such as directly activating postsynaptic receptors, blocking breakdown and reuptake of certain neurotransmitters, or stimulating production and release of catecholamines.
[3] [4] In some plant families (of the order Caryophyllales), l-DOPA is the central precursor of a biosynthetic pathway that produces a class of pigments called betalains. [5] l-DOPA can be manufactured and in its pure form is sold as a drug with the INN Tooltip International Nonproprietary Name levodopa. Trade names include Sinemet, Pharmacopa ...
Nicotinic receptors cause the release of catecholamine from the adrenal medulla, and also site specific excitation or inhibition in brain. Both Nm and Nn receptor types are non-selective cation channels, permeable to sodium and potassium ions, in addition to that, Nn type receptors allow for calcium ion flow.