S-Adenosylmethionine

S-Adenosylmethionine (SAMe, SAM, AdoMet) is a common co-substrate involved in methyl group transfers, transsulfuration, and aminopropylation. Although these anabolic reactions occur throughout the body, most SAMe is produced and consumed in the liver. More than 40 methyl transfers from SAMe are known, to various substrates such as nucleic acids, proteins, lipids and secondary metabolites. It is made from adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and methionine by methionine adenosyltransferase (EC 2.5.1.6 ). SAMe was first discovered by Gioacchino Cantoni at the Columbia University in 1952.

Biochemistry

File:S-Adenosylmethionin.svg

Chemical structure of S-Adenosylmethionine

SAMe is a high-energy compound. Its transfer of a methyl group to a substrate molecule has the potential to be a spontaneous reaction, but this reaction is slow without a catalyst. This is due to the partial double-bond character of the C-N bond, which makes the lone pair of electrons on the nitrogen less available for donation. A catalyst is needed to facilitate the transfer of the methyl group from SAMe to the substrate molecule.

Medical uses

SAMe has been studied in the treatment of depression, liver disease, osteoarthritis, and migraine. However, the evidence to support its use for these conditions is limited and inconsistent. SAMe may have effects similar to those of some antidepressant medications. Some research has suggested that SAMe may be as effective as tricyclic antidepressants in reducing symptoms of depression.

Side effects

Common side effects of SAMe may include nausea, diarrhea, dry mouth, headache, mild insomnia, and anxiety. In rare cases, SAMe may cause allergic reactions, irregular heartbeat, and mania (if you have bipolar disorder).

See also

• Methionine
• Adenosine triphosphate
• Methyl group