Cytotoxic and cytoprotective effects of tryptamine-4,5-dione on neuronal cells: a double-edged sword

What is it about?

Serotonin could be oxidized to a quinone, tryptamine-4,5-dione, in vivo. We have found that the quinone has cytotoxic and also cytoprotective effects toward cultured cells.

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Why is it important?

Because the quinone, originated from serotonin, is unstable and so-reactive against a biomolecule, it could have biological functions. The chemical, quinone, shows beneficial and also sometimes harmful actions. It (Dr. Jekyll or Mr. Hyde) depends on the concentration of the quinone generated and also surrounding biomolecules. We don't know the real function of the quinone in vivo. This research is just a starter.

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