catecholamine

[ kat-i-kol-uh-meen, -koh-luh- ]

noun

, Biochemistry.

1. any of a group of chemically related neurotransmitters, as epinephrine and dopamine, that have similar effects on the sympathetic nervous system.

catecholamine

/ ˌkætəˈkɒləˌmiːn /

noun

1. any of a group of hormones that are catechol derivatives, esp adrenaline and noradrenaline

catecholamine

/ kăt′ĭ-kō′lə-mēn′,-kô′- /

1. Any of a group of amines derived from catechol that have important physiological effects as neurotransmitters and hormones and include epinephrine, norepinephrine, and dopamine.

Word History and Origins

Origin of catecholamine¹

First recorded in 1950–55; catechol + -amine

Word History and Origins

Origin of catecholamine¹

C20: from catechu + -ol ¹+ amine

Example Sentences

The small, bubbly-looking orange adrenal gland sits atop each kidney and makes adrenaline and substances called catecholamines.

From Seattle Times

Like dopamine, these neurotransmitters are all catecholamines, and he took a gamble that the drug might also help get rid of the excessive dopamine in the brains of these young people with VCFS.

From Washington Post

Ongoing elevated levels of stress hormones, such as cortisol and catecholamines, are thought to mediate this wear and tear and aggravate tissue damage.

From Scientific American

Under the umbrella of catecholamines are hormones, including adrenaline, epinephrine noradrenaline and norepinephrine, Ewing-Garber said.

From Fox News

It measured the level of catecholamines — hormones secreted by the adrenal glands, the paired organs atop the kidneys.

From Washington Post