Uses of Tyrosine in Foods to Amplify Catecholamine Release
Abstract
These studies have been part of an ongoing research program on the ability to certain nutrients to affect the production of their neurotransmitter products, and thereby to affect behaviors and other brain functions (e.g., control of blood pressure). The studies have focused on the amino acid tyrosine - which is converted, in neurons or chromaffin cells, to dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. The effect of supplemental tyrosine on brian dopamine release has now been shown directly, using the new technique of in vivo microdialysis. Hemorhage, per se, has been shown to raise neuronal tyrosine levels, probably reflecting a protective mechanism to sustain blood pressure. Adenosine and the amino acid alanine have now also been shown to modulate blood pressure - and adenosine to mediate some of the fall in blood pressure caused by hemorrhage. Various dipeptides & diketopiperazines have been shown to enhance dopamine release, either by providing tyrosine or by direct actions. (js)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA229126
Entities
People
- Richard J. Wurtman
Organizations
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology