Science: Amino Acid Precursors: Neurotransmitters

Science Resources for Neurotransmitter Information

Listed below are educational resources to assist you in learning about neurotransmitters and amino acids that support their natural replenishment:

5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan) is a precursor to serotonin. And serotonin can further convert to melatonin. A simple diagram that shows the synthesis of serotonin:

5-HTP---converts to--->Serotonin---converts to--->Melatonin

Independent Supportive Research:
Indiana State University
The University of Toledo

Phenylalanine and tyrosine are precursors to the body's three "fight or flight" hormones, dopamine, epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine. A simple diagram that shows the synthesis of dopamine:

Phenylalanine---converts to--->Tyrosine---converts to--->DOPA---converts to--->Dopamine

Independent Supportive Research:
Indiana State University
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Phenylalanine and tyrosine are precursors to norepinephrine and epinephrine. A simple diagram that shows the synthesis of norepinephrine and epinephrine:

Phenylalanine---converts to--->Tyrosine---converts to--->DOPA---converts to--->Dopamine
---converts to--->Norepinephrine---converts to--->Epinephrine

Independent Supportive Research:
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
University of Miami, School of Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Glutamine is a precursor to GABA (Gamma-Amino Butyric Acid). A simple diagram that shows the synthesis of norepinephrine and epinephrine:

Glutamine---converts to--->GABA

Independent Supportive Research:
University of Nebraska at Lincoln
Oxford Journals Online
National Library of Medicine