The role of ascorbic acid in catecholamine metabolism

LThe possible participation of ascorbic acid on different physiological, pathophysiological and therapeutic treatment regimens is shown on catecholamine-producing cells in vivo and in vitro. However, it is often difficult to transfer in vitro results to the in vivo situation, since the redox system ascorbic acid:dehydro ascorbic acid can act-dependent on several environmental factors pro-as well as anti-oxidatively, Additionally, ascorbic acid participate on several hydroxylation reactions. In many of them ascorbic acid is not an obligate cofactor under normal conditions. However, it could be helpful in pathobiochemical situations when residual enzyme activities should be improved.