Trace amine
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Trace amines are endogenous compounds structurally related to classical biogenic amines, such as catecholamines, serotonin and histamine. Trace amines include p-tyramine, β-phenylethylamine, tryptamine, octopamine, and 3-iodothyronamine, and are found in the nervous systems of animals from insects to mammals.
Trace amines overlap substantialy with classical biogenic amines neurotransmitters regarding to chemical properties, synthesis, and breakdown; trace amines commonly colocalize in neurons with these neurotransmitters.
Psychiatric disorders such as depression and schizophrenia have been linked to irregular levels of trace amines.