Dopa

/ˈdoʊ.pə/ noun

Definition

A chemical compound in the body that serves as a precursor to important brain chemicals like dopamine and norepinephrine.

Etymology

DOPA is an acronym for dihydroxyphenylalanine, derived from scientific nomenclature. The abbreviation was adopted into general scientific usage in the early 20th century.

Kelly Says

L-DOPA is a famous medication for Parkinson's disease—it's one of the best examples of how understanding one neurotransmitter's chemistry led to treating a devastating illness, changing millions of lives.

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