N-Acetylserotonin

N-Acetylserotonin (NAS), also known as normelatonin, is a naturally occurring chemical in the human body that is a precursor to the hormone melatonin. It is synthesized from the amino acid tryptophan via the enzyme tryptophan hydroxylase and the coenzyme 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP). NAS has been found to have antidepressant and neuroprotective effects.

Function

N-Acetylserotonin is primarily involved in the synthesis of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles. It is converted to melatonin in the pineal gland, a small endocrine gland in the brain, by the enzyme hydroxyindole O-methyltransferase (HIOMT).

In addition to its role in melatonin synthesis, NAS also has other functions in the body. It has been found to have antidepressant effects, possibly due to its ability to increase the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that supports the survival of existing neurons and encourages the growth and differentiation of new neurons and synapses.

NAS also has neuroprotective effects. It has been shown to protect neurons from damage caused by oxidative stress and inflammation, and it may also have potential therapeutic effects in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.

Clinical significance

Abnormal levels of N-Acetylserotonin have been associated with several medical conditions. Low levels of NAS have been found in individuals with depression, insomnia, and certain neurodegenerative diseases. On the other hand, high levels of NAS may be associated with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.

Research is ongoing to further understand the role of NAS in these conditions and to explore potential therapeutic uses of NAS or its derivatives in their treatment.

See also

• Melatonin
• Tryptophan
• 5-Hydroxytryptophan
• Brain-derived neurotrophic factor
• Alzheimer's disease
• Parkinson's disease

N-Acetylserotonin Resources
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