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.
