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The significance of β-carbolines in psychiatry
Published online by Cambridge University Press: 18 September 2015
Summary
In this review the naturally occurring β-carbolines norharman and harman in human beings and mammals will be discussed. These β-carbolines have been recognized as aromatic alkaloids, which can be detected in very low concentrations in human plasma. Norharman and especially harman display moderate affinity to the benzodiazepine receptor. The biosynthesis of these compounds in vivo, the localization, the biological effects and the probable involvement of these compounds in the cause of psychopathologic states will be discussed. This with a special focus on alcoholism, heroin addiction, psychosis and anxiety disorders. In some of these clinical pictures the concentration of norharman is increased. Whether this is a causality or a matter of minor importance is still unknown.
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- Research Article
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- Copyright © Scandinavian College of Neuropsychopharmacology 1994