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Gene & pathway reference · FROM DR. PURSER’S TEACHING

MAOB

MAOB encodes monoamine oxidase B, an enzyme involved in breaking down monoamine compounds, including dopamine. It does not simply build dopamine, and a DNA marker is not a neurotransmitter measurement.

Based on teaching by Dan Purser, MD. How we prepare these guides

Updated Sep 23, 2026 · Educational reference

THE TEACHING CONNECTION

Breaking down monoamine signals

Breaking down monoamine signals

MAOB encodes monoamine oxidase B, an enzyme involved in breaking down monoamine compounds, including dopamine. It does not simply build dopamine, and a DNA marker is not a neurotransmitter measurement.

Putting the pieces together

Dr. Purser discusses MAO genes in the context of brain chemistry and tolerance of interventions. Sleep, medications and changes in symptoms provide the practical context. Drugs that affect monoamine pathways can have important interactions, so changes belong with the prescribing clinician.

A question to bring to your visit

Which medicines or supplements affect monoamine pathways in my current plan?

Variant lookup

These names can help you find an entry on your original genetic report. Seeing a name here does not tell you whether it affects your health or whether you need treatment.

Names you may see

MAO-B · Monoamine Oxidase B