Application of Ademetionine disulfate tosylate (SAMe)
1. S-Adenosyl methionine (SAM, SAMe, SAM-e) is a coenzyme involved in methyl group transfers. It is made
from adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and methionine by methionine adenosyltransferase (EC 2.5.1.6).
Transmethylation, transsulfuration, and aminopropylation are the metabolic pathways that use SAM. Although
these anabolic reactions occur throughout the body, most SAM is produced and consumed in the liver.
2 .The methyl group (CH3) attached to the methionine sulfur atom in SAM is chemically reactive. This allows
donation of this group to an acceptor substrate in transmethylation reactions. More than 40 metabolic reactions
involve the transfer of a methyl group from SAM to various substrates such as nucleic acids, proteins, and lipids.
3 .In bacteria, SAM is bound by the SAM riboswitch, which regulates genes involved in methionine or cysteine
biosynthesis.
4 .Another major role of SAM is in polyamine biosynthesis. Here, SAM is decarboxylated by adenosylmethionine
decarboxylase (EC 4.1.1.50) to form S-adenosyl-5'-3-methylpropylamine. This compound then donates its
group in the biosynthesis of polyamines such as spermidine and spermine .
5 .SAM is required for cellular growth and repair. It is also involved in the biosynthesis of several hormones and
neurotransmitters that affect mood, such as dopamine and serotonin. Methyltransferases are also responsible
for the addition of methyl groups to the 2' hydroxyls of the first and second nucleotides next to the 5' cap in messenger
RNA.
6 .In the United States, SAM is sold as a nutritional supplement under the marketing name SAM-e (also spelled
SAME or SAMe). Some research has indicated that taking SAM on a regular basis help fight depression, liver
disease, and the pain of osteoarthritis. Multiple clinical trials indicate benefits for depression, some liver conditions
and osteoarthritis. All other indications are not yet proven.