Maoa Gene is an important component in the neurobiology of neurodegenerative diseases. This page provides detailed information about its structure, function, and role in disease processes.
MAOA (Monoamine Oxidase A) is a mitochondrial enzyme encoded by the MAOA gene on the X chromosome (Xp11.23)[1]. It catalyzes the oxidative deamination of monoamine neurotransmitters and is a key regulator of brain chemistry[2]. MAOA is primarily located in the mitochondrial outer membrane of presynaptic terminals and astroglia.
| MAOA - Monoamine Oxidase A | |
|---|---|
| Gene Symbol | MAOA |
| Full Name | Monoamine Oxidase A |
| Chromosomal Location | Xp11.23 |
| NCBI Gene ID | 4128 |
| OMIM ID | 309850 |
| Ensembl ID | ENSG00000189221 |
| UniProt ID | [P21397](https://www.uniprot.org/uniprot/P21397) |
| Protein Family | Monoamine oxidase family |
| Subcellular Location | Mitochondrial outer membrane |
MAOA catalyzes oxidative deamination of monoamines:
| Drug | Type | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phenelzine | Irreversible | Approved (historical) | Non-selective |
| Clorgyline | Irreversible | Research | MAOA-selective |
| Selegiline | Irreversible | Approved (PD) | MAO-B selective at low dose |
| Reversible MAOIs | Reversible | Approved | Safer dietary restrictions |
The study of Maoa Gene has evolved significantly over the past decades. Research in this area has revealed important insights into the underlying mechanisms of neurodegeneration and continues to drive therapeutic development.
Historical context and key discoveries in this field have shaped our current understanding and will continue to guide future research directions.
Adolfsson R, Gottfries CG, Oreland L, et al. Increased MAO activity in brains from Downs syndrome and Alzheimer patients. J Neural Transm. Increased MAO activity in brains from Downs syndrome and Alzheimer patients. 2022. ↩︎ ↩︎
Shih JC, Chen K, Ridd MJ. Monoamine oxidase: From genes to behavior. Annu Rev Neurosci. Monoamine oxidase: From genes to behavior. 2021. ↩︎