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Catecholamines

Meaning

Catecholamines are a class of monoamine neurotransmitters and hormones derived from the amino acid tyrosine, including dopamine, norepinephrine (noradrenaline), and epinephrine (adrenaline). These crucial signaling molecules are central to the body’s acute stress response, mediating the “fight-or-flight” reaction through their effects on the cardiovascular system, metabolism, and smooth muscle tone. Clinically, their levels are monitored to assess sympathetic nervous system activity and the functional status of the adrenal medulla. They represent a direct link between the nervous system and endocrine function.