ALLOXANTINE Meaning and
Definition
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Alloxantine is a chemical compound that falls under the category of purine analogs. It is a xanthine derivative that possesses both diuretic and cardiac stimulant properties. The term "alloxantine" is derived from its similarities to another xanthine derivative called theobromine.
As a diuretic, alloxantine acts by increasing the excretion of water and electrolytes from the body. This effect is accomplished through the inhibition of a protein called phosphodiesterase, which ultimately results in increased urination. It is commonly used in the medical field to treat conditions such as edema, hypertension, and congestive heart failure by removing excess fluid from the body.
Furthermore, alloxantine also exhibits cardiac stimulant properties, meaning it has the ability to enhance the force and rate of contractions of the heart. This property is particularly helpful in treating conditions like heart failure, where the heart's pumping ability is compromised.
Due to its structural similarity with theobromine, alloxantine can also act as a competitive inhibitor of certain enzymes that metabolize purine compounds. This characteristic plays a role in the compound's overall pharmacological effects.
Overall, alloxantine is a xanthine derivative that acts as both a diuretic and cardiac stimulant. It is commonly used in medicine for its therapeutic effects on conditions such as edema and heart failure.
Etymology of ALLOXANTINE
The word "Alloxantine" doesn't have a well-established etymology as it is a compound term formed from the combination of two roots or components: "alloxan" and "thiol".
1. "Alloxan" is a chemical compound created by the oxidation of uric acid. It was first discovered in the 19th century by German chemists Heinrich O. D. Fischer and Mehlis. The term "alloxan" is derived from a combination of "all-" meaning "different" or "other" and "ox-" referring to oxygen.
2. "Thiol" is a functional group in organic chemistry that consists of a sulfur atom bonded to a hydrogen atom (-SH). The term "thiol" originates from the Greek word "thiόs", meaning "sulfur".
