Agmatine

Agmatine is a naturally occurring chemical substance produced by the amino acid arginine. It is a biogenic amine that is derived from the amino acid L-arginine through a process called decarboxylation. This is the removal of a carboxylic acid group from the amino acid. Agmatine is stored in neurons and is released during neuronal activation. It is considered to be a neurotransmitter and neuromodulator.

Biochemistry

Agmatine is synthesized in the brain, kidney, liver, adrenal gland, and macrophages. It is stored in synaptic vesicles, accumulated by uptake, and released by membrane depolarization. Agmatine binds to α2-adrenergic receptor and imidazoline receptor, and inhibits NMDA receptor and other cation ligand-gated channels, and activates some types of potassium channels.

Pharmacology

Agmatine has been shown to exert modulatory action at multiple molecular targets, notably: neurotransmitter systems, ion channels, nitric oxide (NO) synthesis and polyamine metabolism and this provides bases for further research into potential applications.

Potential therapeutic applications

Agmatine has been discussed for possible therapeutic roles in the treatment of health conditions such as neuropathic pain and drug addiction. It also protects against strokes and benefits cognitive health.

See also

• Arginine
• Decarboxylation
• Neurotransmitter
• Neuromodulator

References

Agmatine Resources
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