Effects of precursors on brain neurotransmitter synthesis and brain functions

Abstract

This paper reviews factors which influence the levels of aminergic transmitters in the brain. In particular precursor availability to the brain influences the rates of synthesis of serotonin, the catecholamines, and acetylcholine by brain neurons. The diet readily influences brain neurotransmitter formation via this mechanism. At present, the importance of this relationship to body regulation is not well understood. Nonetheless, precursors (tryptophan, tyrosine, choline, and lecithin) have begun to find uses as therapeutic agents in the treatment of disease states involving diminished transmitter formation and release. Hopefully, these compounds will find a wide range of uses, as they lack many of the side effects that accompany the use of drugs. © 1981 Springer-Verlag.