Background:

3,4-Dihydroxybenzeneacetic acid is the main neuronal metabolite of dopamine.

3,4-Dihydroxybenzeneacetic acid is the main neuronal metabolite of dopamine. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) 3,4-Dihydroxybenzeneacetic acid (DOPAC) is derived from intra-neuronal metabolism of cytoplasmic dopamine, and acts as a sensitive and specific biomarker of central dopamine deficiency[1].

[1]. Goldstein DS, et al. Elevated cerebrospinal fluid ratios of cysteinyl-dopamine/3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid in parkinsonian synucleinopathies. Parkinsonism Relat Disord. 2016 Oct;31:79-86.