Monoamine Oxidase (MAO) Assay Kit

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

Monoamine oxidase (MAO) also known as MAO-A (with a mass of approximately 59 kDa) and MAO-B is a mitochondrial enzyme that catalyzes the oxidative deamination of monoamines. It primarily exists in the outer mitochondrial membrane and plays a significant role in the metabolism of neurotransmitters such as serotonin dopamine and norepinephrine. MAO enzymes are majorly found in the brain liver and gastrointestinal tract and their activity regulates neurotransmitter levels that influence mood and behavior.

Biological function summary

MAO activity impacts the regulation of neurotransmitter signaling in the nervous system. MAO does not function as a part of a large complex; it exists as a dimeric protein yet independently performs critical enzymatic tasks. Its primary function is to prevent the accumulation of excessive monoamines which could lead to neurotoxicity and affect cellular homeostasis.

Pathways

MAO plays an important role in the catecholamine and serotonin signaling pathways. In particular it functions in degrading serotonin and catecholamines affecting neurotransmission balance. Through these pathways MAO interacts with other critical proteins such as catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) and dopamine beta-hydroxylase which also participate in the modulation of neurotransmitter activity.

Associated diseases and disorders

MAO influences several conditions including depression and Parkinson's disease. Alterations in MAO activity can affect levels of serotonin and other neurotransmitters linked to these disorders. Additionally in the context of neurological diseases changes in MAO function can interact with proteins like alpha-synuclein potentially contributing to neurodegenerative processes associated with Parkinson's disease.