Monoamines: what they are, types and functions in the body

What are monoamines?

Monoamines, defined by various studies by theNational Autonomous University of Honduras, are substances that intervene as a pharmacological and dynamic agent in the development and processing of theCentral Nervous System (CNS). (1)

Monoamines are derived from amino acids with a single amino group, and are the cause of the synthesis of hormones and ferment substrates.

Important: The alteration of monoamines in the body produces serious consequences, including disorders and changes in behavior.

For the same reason previously exposed, they are used as a tool for thetreatment of pathologieswith the action of processed drugs, which are a valuable complement that helps the study of the role ofneurohormonesinbrain functionand their modes of action.

Characteristics of monoamines

The characteristics of monoamines determine their operation and allow their understanding, so they will be mentioned and described below.

They are classified as neurotransmitters

Due to their nature and their functional objectivity, they are described as neurotransmitters , since they are the main substances involved in synaptic processes as agents distributed in a specific and characteristic way following the brain tissue.

Note: Monoamines have neuromodulation functions and process complex information for the proper functioning of our body.

They are found in the central and peripheral nervous system

It is one of its main characteristics and it is due to the fact that its distribution opens up space throughout the entire Central Nervous System (CNS) and also through the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS), regulating fundamental functions and even control activity. in our organism.

Its size is microscopic

Among the most notable characteristics of this substance is its size, totally contrary to the responsibility they develop in the body.

Monoamines are Microscopic Molecules , but they regulate important and essential functions, such as:

• Emotional states
• visceral functions
• Function engine
• Attention
• chemical synthesis
• Homeostasis
• Equilibrium

They are produced by neurons in the brain.

They are synthesized in Pre-synaptic neurons and are based on amino acidstag. There are, then, systems of neurons in thebrain specifically responsible for the production of this substance, also modulating its extensive functions.

They come from aromatic amino acids

It is recognized that all monoamines come from aromatic amino acids , among which Tyrosine, thyroid hormones and phenylalanine can be highlighted .

Important fact: The Decarboxylation in charge of the process of the corresponding amines is recognized as reversible and competitive, it works at the enzymatic level and currently this synthesis is carried out due to its pharmacological value.

Functions of monoamines in the body

Monoamines have important functions, to which we have been referring throughout the article. These will be mentioned and described below for your understanding and identification.

Receive and release synaptic material

As reflected in the research of the Educate Association for Human Development in an article developed by Dr. Nicolas Parra , the neuromodulation characteristic infers the reception and release of synaptic material, which facilitates the information for the execution of processes complexes that develop in our body. (two)

Regulate Attention

As we previously mentioned, one of the important functions that monoamines perform in our body is the Attention span of the individual .

They are even capable of regulating their level of activation and being a regulator of the projection that is made of the stimuli to the brain.

Control emotional states

It has within its types, a monoamine with specificity on emotional states and sensory processing.

It is synthesized through neurons of the brain and processed on circuits that are described as quite complex for the activation and administration of the mind and sensory. (3)

There are also neuropeptides , related to these regulations with interaction in monoaminergic neurons . In fact, monoamines are synthesized and applied to patients as treatments for depression , that is, as an active ingredient in antidepressants .

Regulate motor functions

The influence of motivation, activation and motor behavior of the organism is regulated through monoamines.

Control chemical synthesis work

It fulfills a synthesis function in hormones and ferment substrates as previously mentioned.

For this reason, the capacity or skill of Homeostasis and balance is produced in our organism , conditioning functions of vital importance, including internal and external protection of our environment due to its effects as receptors.

Types of monoamines

Monoamines have a classification that allows them to be grouped, above all, based on their functionality and specificity of range of action. These will be mentioned below to then allow their identification and recognition.

catecholamines

They are made up of a Catechol Group and an Amino Group , considered neurotransmitters and being produced mainly by adrenal glands.

Note: Catecholamines are important for responses to stress and are made to send signals to other cells in the body.

In the same way, they are evaluated through examined samples of urine or blood and the main catecholamines are Dopamine, Adrenaline (Epinephrine) and Norepinephrine (Norepinephrine).

Dopamine

Dopamine is considered the most important catecholaminergic neurotransmitter in mammalian CNS interaction, regulating motor and emotional functions.

Dopamine is, in general terms, a chemical messenger in charge of propagating signals, especially those related to pleasure, motivation, learning, coordination, among others. (4)

Adrenaline

Also known as epinephrine, it is a neurotransmitter and hormone secreted naturally and being applied in situations of alarm, fear, excitement or danger.

Curious fact: In some cases , Adrenaline can be synthesized for use in drugs, due to the stimulation of contractility it produces, as well as its use in cases of intoxication or severe allergy, since it dilates and Stimulates blood vessels .

norepinephrine

Also known as norepinephrineand has many physiological functions acting as a hormone or neurotransmitter. It has an influence on functions stimulated by stress or integrative mechanisms. It acts onPostganglionic Parasympathetic Fibers and on many of the central neurons. (5)

Indolamines

serotonin

Serotonin is capable of generating a feeling of well-being and satiety, as well as positively influencing relaxation, self-esteem and concentration.

Melatonin

It is a hormone found in humans as well as plants, fungi, bacteria and animals.

It is synthesized from one of the essential amino acids , and among its main functions we can highlight its ability to control the Biological Clock , antioxidant, appetite regulation and improvement of the immune system .

Melatonin deficiencies are manifested in the presence of pathologies or disorders, considering it important to mention that its presence in our body also helps to fall asleep.

Key Findings

• Monoamines are called that way precisely because of their composition, which has only one amino in its chain.
• They are hormones and neurotransmitters that help order and execute many essential functions in our body.
• They are classified into two subgroups based on the molecule that combines with the amino ( Indole or catechol ) and leads to the creation of neurotransmitter and neuromodulator substances, depending on the case.
• They are distributed throughout the entire Cns and Snp , to cover all the regulatory and activating functions to keep the system working and developing correctly.