Monoamine oxidase A

Monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) is a critical enzyme in humans, encoded by the MAOA gene. This enzyme and its gene are part of a neighboring gene family that produces mitochondrial enzymes responsible for the oxidative deamination of amines.

Dopamine metabolism fncir-07-00102-g008

Biochemical Function

MAO-A catalyzes the oxidative deamination of various amines, including prominent neurotransmitters such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. These monoamines play vital roles in numerous physiological functions like mood regulation, stress response, and cognitive processing.

Genetic Influence and Disorders

Mutations in the MAOA gene can result in Brunner syndrome, a rare genetic disorder characterized by lower than normal intelligence and impulsive, violent behaviors.

In addition to Brunner syndrome, the MAOA gene has been associated with a range of other psychiatric disorders. The gene has been linked to antisocial behavior, potentially due to the role of the MAO-A enzyme in the metabolism of mood-regulating neurotransmitters.

Gene Variants and Isoforms

Multiple isoforms of the MAO-A enzyme have been observed, resulting from the alternatively spliced transcript variants of the MAOA gene. These different isoforms could potentially have varying functions or activity levels, although further research is required to understand these fully.