monoamine oxidase

noun

Definition of monoamine oxidase

: an enzyme that deaminates monoamines oxidatively and that functions in the nervous system by breaking down monoamine neurotransmitters

Recent Examples of monoamine oxidase from the Web

When taking a class of antidepressants called monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) these foods can trigger a dangerous increase in blood pressure.

— richard a. marini, San Antonio Express-News, "6 foods to avoid if you’re taking these prescription drugs," 6 Mar. 2018
Flash forward to today, and there are now several types of antidepressants available, from the earliest tricyclics and monoamine oxidase inhibitors to the ubiquitous modern-day selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

— dean burnett, The Cut, "Thinking Beyond the ‘Chemical Imbalance’ Theory of Depression," 11 Jan. 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'monoamine oxidase.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.