dopa decarboxylase

the intermediate enzyme in the metabolism of catecholamines from the dietary amino acid tyrosine. Tyrosine is transformed to L-dopa by tyrosine hydroxylase. L-dopa is in turn converted to dopamine by dopa decarboxylase, which also transforms a number of other aromatic amino acids. Dopamine is the final product in dopaminergic neurons; in adrenergic neurons, dopamine is transformed by the enzyme dopamine beta-hydroxylase to norepinephrine and subsequently—in specialized cells in the adrenal medulla and other sites, via the action of the enzyme phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase—to epinephrine. Also called aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase.

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Psychology term of the day

September 8th 2024

aromatherapy

n. a type of therapy purported to improve psychological and physical health through the use of selected essential oils extracted from seeds, herbs, flowers, fruits, and trees. The fragrances of these oils are inhaled or the oils themselves are applied topically, using compresses, baths, or massages, in an effort to induce relaxation, reduce stress and emotional distress, and enhance well-being. Evidence supporting the effectiveness of aromatherapy is largely inconclusive. See also complementary and alternative medicine.