N-acetylserotonin

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N-acetylserotonin

N-acetylserotonin (NAS), also known as normelatonin, is a naturally occurring chemical intermediate in the biosynthesis of the hormone melatonin from the neurotransmitter serotonin. It is produced by the enzyme serotonin N-acetyltransferase and is converted to melatonin by the enzyme hydroxyindole O-methyltransferase.

Structure and Properties

N-acetylserotonin is a small molecule with a molecular weight of 245.3 g/mol. It is composed of a indole ring, a carboxyl group, and an acetyl group. The acetyl group is attached to the nitrogen atom of the indole ring, giving the molecule its name.

Biosynthesis

The biosynthesis of N-acetylserotonin begins with the conversion of the amino acid tryptophan to 5-hydroxytryptophan by the enzyme tryptophan hydroxylase. This is then decarboxylated by aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase to produce serotonin. Serotonin is then acetylated by the enzyme serotonin N-acetyltransferase to produce N-acetylserotonin.

Function

N-acetylserotonin acts as a precursor to melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep and circadian rhythms. It also has its own biological activity, acting as a neurotransmitter and a neuroprotective agent. It has been shown to promote the survival of neurons and to stimulate the growth of new neurons, a process known as neurogenesis.

Clinical Significance

Alterations in the levels of N-acetylserotonin have been implicated in a number of psychiatric and neurological disorders, including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and Alzheimer's disease. It is also being investigated as a potential therapeutic agent in these conditions.

See Also

• Melatonin
• Serotonin
• Tryptophan

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