Role of Catecholamines in Blood Pressure Regulation

Catecholamines are compounds composed of a catechol nucleus (a benzene ring with two adjacent hydroxyl groups) and an amine-containing side-chain. The catecholamines occurring in man are dopamine, noradrenaline, and adrenaline. Dopamine serves as a neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. Furthermore, this amine functions as a precursor for noradrenaline and adrenaline. Noradrenaline is synthesized in the chromaffin tissue, in parts of the brain, and in the postganglionic sympathetic nerves, where it serves as the neurotransmitter substance. Adrenaline is synthesized in the brain and in the chromaffin cells. Most of the adrenaline is formed in the chromaffin cells of the adrenal medulla, from where it is secreted into the blood.