catecholamine

Examples of catecholamine in the following topics:

• Adrenal Medulla

  • The adrenal medulla is responsible for the production of catecholamines, derived from the amino acid tyrosine.
  • Receptors for catecholamines are widely distributed throughout the body to allow for a systemic response following secretion.

• Adrenergic Neurons and Receptors

  • Adrenergic receptors are molecules that bind catecholamines.
  • The adrenergic receptors (or adrenoceptors) are a class of metabotropic G protein-coupled receptors that are targets of the catecholamines, especially norepinephrine or noradrenaline, and epinephrine (adrenaline).
  • Although dopamine is a catecholamine, its receptors are in a different category.

• Overview of the Adrenal Glands

  • Along with catecholamines (adrenaline), these hormones control a variety of functions including kidney function, metabolism, fight-or-flight response, and sex hormone levels.

• Types of Neurotransmitters by Function

  • Biogenic amines include the catecholamines, such as dopamine, norepinephrine (NE), and epinephrine, as well as indolamines such as serotonin and histamine.
  • Additionally, some motor neurons of the ANS release catecholamines like NE.

• Sympathetic Nervous System

  • Therefore, this response is mediated directly via impulses transmitted through the sympathetic nervous system, and indirectly via catecholamines secreted from the adrenal medulla, and acts primarily on the cardiovascular system.

• Sympathetic Responses

  • Therefore, this response is mediated directly via impulses transmitted through the sympathetic nervous system, and also indirectly via catecholamines that are secreted from the adrenal medulla, and acts primarily on the cardiovascular system.
  • Catecholamine hormones, such as adrenaline or noradrenaline, facilitate the immediate physical reactions associated with a preparation for violent muscular action.

• Adrenal Cortex

  • Cortisol enhances the activity of other hormones including glucagon and catecholamines.

• The Stress Response

  • This response acts primarily on the cardiovascular system and is mediated directly via impulses transmitted through the sympathetic nervous system and indirectly via catecholamines, such as the adrenaline secreted from the adrenal medulla.

• The Fight-or-Flight Response

  • Simultaneously, the adrenal gland also releases catecholamine hormones, such as adrenaline or noradrenaline, into the blood stream.

• The Resistance Reaction

  • During this stage, the locus coeruleus/sympathetic nervous system is activated and catecholamines such as adrenaline are produced to create the fight-or-flight response.