DOPA
Dihydroxyphenylalanine is a practically initial substrate of the metabolic pathway of catecholamines: dopamine, norepinephrine and adrenaline. Its situation is basic in the metabolic activity of the neuron, since it originates from a precursor that is the amino acid paratyrosine, which by action of an important enzymatic system such as tyrosine hydroxylase, which needs cofactors such as biopteridine, allows DOPA to be synthesized.
DOPA metabolism
3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine is an important precursor in the secondary metabolism of tyrosine and phenylalanine. It is produced by the hydroxylation of tyrosine and produces several secondary metabolites such as melanins, catecholamines, betalains, hygroaurines, tetrahydroisoquinoline alkaloids, and other alkaloids.
