Description
Tyramine Free Base — Trace Amine & Neurochemical Probe
Tyramine (free base) is a naturally occurring biogenic amine derived from the decarboxylation of the amino acid tyrosine. It acts as a catecholamine releasing agent and a “false transmitter,” entering catecholaminergic nerve terminals to displace endogenous neurotransmitters such as dopamine and norepinephrine. In research settings, tyramine is used to probe enzyme activity (e.g. monoamine oxidase, catechol-O-methyltransferase), receptor binding, membrane transport, and small-molecule signaling pathways.
Key Specifications & Properties
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CAS Number: 51-67-2
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Molecular Formula: C₈H₁₁NO
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Molecular Weight: 137.18 g/mol
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Appearance: Off-white to pale yellow crystalline powder
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Melting Point: ~160-162 °C
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Solubility: Slightly soluble in water (≈1 g in 95 mL at 15 °C); more soluble in methanol, ethanol
Functional Highlights & Research Uses
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Neurotransmitter / neuromodulator studies
Tyramine can serve as a tool to displace endogenous catecholamines (e.g. norepinephrine) from storage vesicles, enabling studies on synaptic function, reuptake, or transporter dynamics.
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Enzyme assays
It is used as a substrate or probe for monoamine oxidase (MAO) and catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) assays, enabling measurement of enzyme kinetics or inhibitor potency.
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Receptor interaction / binding experiments
Tyramine is also used to explore binding to trace amine receptors, adrenergic systems, or to model off-target interactions with muscarinic, histamine, or other G-protein coupled receptors.
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Membrane transport & uptake studies
Because it can cross into catecholaminergic terminals, tyramine is used to study transporter systems (e.g. NET, DAT) or competing uptake pathways.
Usage Notes & Best Practices
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Prepare fresh stock solutions (e.g. in buffer, aqueous medium, or DMSO) to minimize degradation or oxidation.
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Use matched blanks (no enzyme / no receptor) to subtract background signal.
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In enzyme or uptake assays, verify that observed activity is specific (e.g. through inhibitor controls, inactive analogs).
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Because tyramine is biologically active, ensure safe handling (PPE, fume hood where necessary).
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Confirm batch purity and certificate details (COA) before use, especially when quantitative precision is required.
Safety & Disclaimer
This product is for research use only, not for diagnostic or therapeutic applications.
As a biologically active amine, tyramine may have bioactive or toxic effects at higher concentrations—handle carefully. Avoid inhalation, ingestion, or skin/eye contact, and follow institutional safety protocols.
Store in a cool, dry, well-sealed container away from light and moisture to preserve chemical integrity.
