3-Methyl-L-tyrosine

3-Methyl-L-tyrosine is a natural amino acid that is important in the production of catecholamines, such as dopamine. 3-Methyl-L-tyrosine has been shown to inhibit enzymes that catalyze the oxidation of biogenic amines and polyunsaturated fatty acids. It also inhibits peroxidase activity by scavenging free radicals. This amino acid may be used as a therapeutic agent for depression, as it has been shown to activate the catecholamine system in the brain. 3-Methyl-L-tyrosine may also have applications in radical scavenging, methyltransferase and transfer mechanisms in biochemical reactions.