3,4-다이하이드록시-알파-메틸페닐알라닌

개요Methyldopa is an α-methoxylated derivative of levodopa that exhibits hypotensive action by reducing overall peripheral vascular resistance and reducing heart work. Antihypertensive action of methyldopa consists of the biotransformation of methyldopa into methylnoradrenaline (methylnorepinephrine), which acts as a “pseudo neurotransmitter.” The current, universally accepted point of view is that the action of methyldopa is carried out through the CNS, where methylnorepinephrine, a powerful stimulant of α-adrenergic receptors of the medulla, inhibits the vasomotor center.

용도L-(-)-a-Methyldopa is an anti-Parkinson’s drug that has been used in anti-Parkinson’s mixtures.

일반 설명Methyldopa differs structurally from L-DOPA only in the presence of a -methyl group. Originally synthesized as an AADC inhibitor,methyldopa ultimately decreases the concentration of DA,NE, E, and serotonin in the CNS and periphery. However,its mechanism of action is not caused by its inhibition ofAADC but, rather, by its metabolism in the CNS to its activemetabolite ( β-methylnorepinephrine). Methyldopa istransported actively into CNS via an aromatic amino acidtransporter, where it is decarboxylated by AADC in thebrain to (1R,2S)- α-methyldopamine. This intermediate, inturn, is stereospecifically β-hydroxylated by DBH to givethe (1R,2S)-α-methylnorepinephrine. This active metaboliteis a selective α2-agonist because it has correct(1R,2S) configuration . It is currently postulated that α-methylnorepinephrine acts on α2-receptors in theCNS in the same manner as clonidine, to decrease sympatheticoutflow and lower blood pressure.