Coclaurine

Coclaurine is a benzylisoquinoline alkaloid found in various plants, including members of the Papaveraceae and Menispermaceae families. It is a precursor in the biosynthesis of many other plant alkaloids.

Chemistry

Coclaurine is a dimer of two dopamine molecules, and is the first committed step in the biosynthesis of benzylisoquinoline alkaloids. The formation of coclaurine from dopamine is catalyzed by the enzyme N-methyltransferase.

Biosynthesis

The biosynthesis of coclaurine begins with the decarboxylation of L-tyrosine to tyramine by the enzyme tyrosine decarboxylase. Tyramine is then converted to dopamine by the enzyme tyramine hydroxylase. Dopamine is then methylated by the enzyme N-methyltransferase to form N-methyl dopamine. Two molecules of N-methyl dopamine are then coupled by the enzyme dopamine N-methyltransferase to form coclaurine.

Pharmacology

Coclaurine has been found to have antioxidant properties, and has been studied for its potential use in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. It has also been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, and has been studied for its potential use in the treatment of inflammatory diseases.

See also

• Benzylisoquinoline
• Alkaloid
• Dopamine
• N-methyltransferase