3,4-Dihydroxyphenylacetic acid

3,4-Dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (also known as DOPAC) is a metabolite of the neurotransmitter dopamine. It is created by the action of the enzyme monoamine oxidase (MAO) on dopamine. DOPAC is then typically converted into homovanillic acid (HVA) by the action of the enzyme catechol-O-methyl transferase (COMT).

Metabolism

DOPAC is a major metabolite of dopamine, which is a crucial neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. The metabolism of dopamine into DOPAC is a two-step process. First, dopamine is oxidized by the enzyme monoamine oxidase to produce DOPAC. This reaction also produces hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), which can be harmful to cells if not properly managed. The second step is the methylation of DOPAC by the enzyme catechol-O-methyl transferase to produce homovanillic acid.

Role in Disease

Alterations in the levels of DOPAC and other dopamine metabolites have been implicated in a number of neurological disorders, including Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia, and mood disorders. For example, patients with Parkinson's disease often have lower levels of DOPAC in their cerebrospinal fluid, which may reflect a decrease in dopamine production.

Measurement

The levels of DOPAC and other dopamine metabolites can be measured in various body fluids, including blood, urine, and cerebrospinal fluid. This can be useful for diagnosing and monitoring the progression of diseases that affect dopamine metabolism.

See Also

• Dopamine
• Monoamine oxidase
• Catechol-O-methyl transferase
• Homovanillic acid
• Neurotransmitter
• Metabolite

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