What is the precursor to L-dopa?

The precursor to L-DOPA (levodopa) is the amino acid L-tyrosine. In the body, L-tyrosine is converted to L-DOPA through the action of the enzyme tyrosine hydroxylase. L-DOPA is then further converted to dopamine, which is a crucial neurotransmitter involved in many functions, including movement and mood regulation.