Indolethylamine N-methyltransferase (INMT)

Indolethylamine N-methyltransferase (INMT) is a methyltransferase enzyme that catalyzes the transfer of methyl groups from S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM) to the amino groups of small molecules, mainly indolethylamines such as tryptamine, and structurally related compounds[1][2][3]. INMT is most recognized for its role in the biosynthesis of N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a compound with psychotropic effects, through double methylation of tryptamine. It is expressed in multiple human and mammalian tissues, primarily non-neural, and also contributes to detoxification pathways via methylation of thioether, selenoether, and related compounds[2][3]. The gene displays significant species differences in its activity and substrate specificity (notably, rat INMT does not catalyze DMT biosynthesis under usual conditions)[1]. Disruption or polymorphisms in INMT may be implicated in disease processes such as hallucinogen response and nephrolithiasis, but its full physiological and pathological roles remain under investigation.

Other names

Amine N-methyltransferaseArylamine N-methyltransferaseThioether S-methyltransferaseIndolamine N-methyltransferaseAromatic alkylamine N-methyltransferaseNicotine N-methyltransferaseTEMT

Methylation of amine substrates (notably tryptamine, aniline, nicotine); Detoxification reactions (e.g., methylation of selenium and thioether compounds)[2][3]