monoamine

[ mon-oh-uh-meen, -am-in ]

noun

, Biochemistry.

1. any of various biogenic amine neurotransmitters having a single amino group, as dopamine, epinephrine, and norepinephrine.

monoamine

/ ˌmɒnəʊˈeɪmiːn /

noun

1. a substance, such as adrenaline, noradrenaline, or serotonin, that contains a single amine group

monoamine

/ mŏn′ō-ăm′ēn,-ə-mēn′ /

1. An amine compound containing one amino group (NH 2 ), especially such a compound that functions as a neurotransmitter. The catecholamines and serotonin are monoamines. Abnormal levels of monoamines in the brain have been implicated in mood disorders.

Word History and Origins

Origin of monoamine¹

First recorded in 1855–60; mono- + amine

Example Sentences

In other words, serotonin's influence on depression, also known as the monoamine model of depression, seems to be wrong or at least incomplete.

From Salon

The most commonly used antidepressants target signaling by the monoamine neurotransmitters serotonin, dopamine and noradrenaline.

From Scientific American

Dr. Friedman added that an older type of antidepressants known as monoamine oxidase inhibitors, or MAOIs, could be particularly dangerous when combined with alcohol.

From New York Times

It is a layman’s simplification of the monoamine hypothesis, which has been the prevalent explanation for depression for almost 50 years.

From Economist

Ingested on its own, it has no effect on humans, because it is rapidly degraded by an enzyme in the gut, monoamine oxidase.

From The New Yorker