Function
Monoamine oxidase or amine oxidase (Flavin-containing) (MAO) are enzymes which catalyze the oxidation of monoamines[1]. MAO contains FAD as co-factor.
- MAO-A and MAO-C are human enzymes which oxidize adrenaline, noradrenaline, serotonin and dopamine.
- MAO-B or amine oxidase [flavin-containing] B is a human enzyme which oxidizes benzylamine and phenylethylamine. For details on MAO-B see Monoamine oxidase b.
- MAO-N is a Aspergillus niger enzyme which oxidizes primary amines[2].
Relevance
Elevated levels of MAO-A in the brain are measured during depression[3]. MAO inhibitors were the first anti-depression drugs developed.
Structural highlights
MAO-B active site is composed of 2 cavities: the substrate cavity in front of the FAD and the entrance cavity. Safinamide - a drug tested for Parkinson's disease[4] - occupies both cavities[5]. . Water molecules are shown as red spheres. .