General, Organic, and Biological Chemistry: Structures of Life (5th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0321967461
ISBN 13: 978-0-32196-746-6

Chapter 18 - Amines and Amides - Challenge Questions - Page 683: 18.93

Answer

Dopamine is an essential neurotransmitter to the brain, as it plays an integral role in controlling muscle movement. Dopamine cannot cross the blood-brain barrier, however. As a result, individuals whose bodies do not produce enough dopamine will be given L-dopa, as this medication can cross the blood-brain barrier. Once in the brain, it is converted into the dopamine that the brain and body needs.

Work Step by Step

Dopamine is an essential neurotransmitter to the brain, as it plays an integral role in controlling muscle movement. Dopamine cannot cross the blood-brain barrier, however. As a result, individuals whose bodies do not produce enough dopamine will be given L-dopa, as this medication can cross the blood-brain barrier. Once in the brain, it is converted into the dopamine that the brain and body needs.
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