A polyamine is an organic compound having two or more primary amino groups –NH2.
Low-molecular-weight linear polyamines perform essential functions in all living cells. Primary examples are putrescine, cadaverine, spermidine, and spermine. In animals, their levels are maintained from both the diet and de novo synthesis, and their decline with age is associated with various pathologies. Polyamine metabolism is regulated by the activity of the enzyme ornithine decarboxylase (ODC). Polyamines are found in high concentrations in the mammalian brain.
