After studying Module 2: Lecture Materials & Resources, submit the following:
Starting with the precursor substance tyrosine or tryptophan, identify and briefly describe each chemical step required to create each neurotransmitter.
How to solve
Florida International University Health & Medical Questions
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Introduction:
The synthesis of neurotransmitters is a complex process that involves several chemical steps. Understanding how these neurotransmitters are produced from precursor substances such as tyrosine or tryptophan is essential for medical college students studying the field of neurology. In this assignment, students are tasked with identifying and briefly describing the chemical steps required to create each neurotransmitter starting from tyrosine or tryptophan. This exercise will test their knowledge of neurotransmitter synthesis pathways and help them grasp the intricate process involved in neurotransmitter production.
Answer:
1. Dopamine:
Dopamine is synthesized from the precursor amino acid tyrosine. The first step in dopamine synthesis involves the conversion of tyrosine to L-DOPA through the action of the enzyme tyrosine hydroxylase. This enzymatic reaction adds a hydroxyl group to the tyrosine molecule, resulting in the formation of L-DOPA. L-DOPA then undergoes decarboxylation, a process catalyzed by the enzyme aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase, to form dopamine.
2. Serotonin:
Serotonin, also known as 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), is derived from the precursor amino acid tryptophan. The initial step in serotonin synthesis involves the hydroxylation of tryptophan by the enzyme tryptophan hydroxylase, resulting in the formation of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP). Subsequently, an enzyme called aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase decarboxylates 5-HTP to produce serotonin.
3. Noradrenaline (Norepinephrine):
Noradrenaline, also referred to as norepinephrine, is synthesized from the precursor amino acid tyrosine. The first step in noradrenaline synthesis is the conversion of tyrosine to L-DOPA, which is catalyzed by the enzyme tyrosine hydroxylase. Following this, L-DOPA is further converted to dopamine through the decarboxylation reaction mediated by aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase. Dopamine then undergoes a series of reactions involving the enzyme dopamine-beta-hydroxylase to produce noradrenaline.
4. GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid):
GABA is synthesized from the precursor molecule glutamate. The conversion of glutamate to GABA involves the removal of an amino group from glutamate, resulting in the formation of GABA. This reaction is facilitated by the enzyme glutamate decarboxylase, which catalyzes the decarboxylation of glutamate.
5. Acetylcholine:
Acetylcholine is synthesized from the precursor molecule choline and acetyl coenzyme A (acetyl-CoA). The first step in acetylcholine synthesis is the transfer of an acetyl group from acetyl-CoA to choline, mediated by the enzyme choline acetyltransferase. This reaction forms acetylcholine, which can then be stored in vesicles and released as a neurotransmitter.
In summary, the synthesis of neurotransmitters involves a series of chemical reactions starting from precursor substances such as tyrosine or tryptophan. Each neurotransmitter has a unique synthesis pathway that requires specific enzymes and intermediates. By understanding these steps, medical college students can gain insight into the intricate process of neurotransmitter production, which is crucial for studying neurological disorders and their treatment.
