Posted by Larry Hoover on May 8, 2005, at 12:57:24
In reply to Re: Mode of action unknown » Bob, posted by Chairman_MAO on May 8, 2005, at 12:28:18
> Well, that is partially correct, however MAO is present INSIDE neurons themselves, and so--if I am correct here--taking an MAOI can actually alter the amount of neurotransmitter stored INSIDE a given neuron.
I'm just skimming this thread, and this jumped out.....
I believe MAO is a synaptic cleft enzyme, designed to "corral" any stray neurotransmitter that didn't: a) hit its designated receptor (post-synaptic); b) hit its designated auto-receptor (pre-synaptic); c) get vacuumed up by the reuptake pump (pre-synaptic). Inhibiting MAO would, presumably, slightly enhance all of the above. However, it shunts "escaped" neurotransmitters to other scavenger enzymes, e.g. COMT. Thus, the metabolites of the catecholamines must change proportion and concentration. Perhaps that is the mode of action, metabolite-mediated response elements.
Lar
poster:Larry Hoover
thread:494113
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20050504/msgs/495213.html