Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitor - Mechanism of Action

Mechanism of Action

MAOIs act by inhibiting the activity of monoamine oxidase, thus preventing the breakdown of monoamine neurotransmitters and thereby increasing their availability. There are two isoforms of monoamine oxidase, MAO-A and MAO-B. MAO-A preferentially deaminates serotonin, melatonin, epinephrine, and norepinephrine. MAO-B preferentially deaminates phenylethylamine and trace amines. Dopamine is equally deaminated by both types. Many formulations have forms of fluoride attached to assist in permeating the blood–brain barrier, which is suspected as a factor in pineal gland effects.

Read more about this topic:  Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitor

Famous quotes containing the words mechanism of, mechanism and/or action:

    Life is an offensive, directed against the repetitious mechanism of the Universe.
    Alfred North Whitehead (1861–1947)

    The law isn’t justice. It’s a very imperfect mechanism. If you press exactly the right buttons and are also lucky, justice may show up in the answer. A mechanism is all the law was ever intended to be.
    Raymond Chandler (1888–1959)

    You mustn’t look in my novel for the old stable ego of the character. There is another ego, according to whose action the individual is unrecognisable.
    —D.H. (David Herbert)