AANAT


Aanat: The Melatonin-Synthesizing Enzyme

Description

Aanat (arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase) is a key enzyme involved in the biosynthesis of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles, circadian rhythms, and various other physiological processes. Aanat catalyzes the N-acetylation of serotonin, converting it into N-acetylserotonin. This intermediate is then further converted into melatonin by the enzyme hydroxyindole-O-methyltransferase (HIOMT).

Associated Diseases

Dysregulation of aanat activity or melatonin levels has been implicated in several diseases and conditions:

  • Insomnia and Sleep Disorders: Reduced aanat activity or melatonin levels are commonly found in individuals with insomnia and other sleep disorders.
  • Circadian Rhythm Disorders: Aberrant aanat activity can disrupt circadian rhythms, leading to conditions such as delayed sleep-wake phase disorder and jet lag.
  • Neurodegenerative Disorders: Alterations in aanat expression or melatonin synthesis have been observed in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer‘s and Parkinson‘s disease.
  • Cardiovascular Disease: Studies suggest that dysregulation of melatonin production, influenced by aanat activity, may contribute to cardiovascular risk.

Did you Know ?

Approximately 60-75% of people with insomnia have been found to have reduced aanat activity or melatonin levels, highlighting the enzyme‘s significant role in sleep regulation.


Disclaimer: The information provided here is not exhaustive by any means. Always consult your doctor or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, procedure, or treatment, whether it is a prescription medication, over-the-counter drug, vitamin, supplement, or herbal alternative.