Metabolic activation of dopamine o-quinones to o-semiquinones by NADPH cytochrome P450 reductase may play an important role in oxidative stress and apoptotic effects.

In this study, it is shown that considerable evidence for the possible pathway by which dopamine o-quinone, o-quinone and aminochrome can be activated metabolically by NADPH cytochrome P450 reductase to high reactive semiquinones. These findings were discussed from a mechanistic standpoint as well as in terms of potential physiological implications of dopamine o-quinones and o-semiquinones' concerted action in oxidative stress and apoptotic events.