ARYLCYCLOHEXYLAMINE Meaning and
Definition
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Arylcyclohexylamine is a type of organic chemical compound that belongs to the larger class of compounds known as amines. It is characterized by the presence of a cyclohexyl group attached to an amine functional group with an aryl substituent. The aryl group can refer to any aromatic species such as benzene, toluene, or naphthalene.
Arylcyclohexylamine compounds are commonly encountered in various fields like pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and materials chemistry. They exhibit diverse chemical and biological activities, making them valuable in drug discovery and development. These compounds often possess psychotropic effects on the central nervous system and can be used as psychoactive substances. They are classified as dissociative anesthetics, meaning they induce a state of anesthesia characterized by a disconnection of the conscious mind from the external environment.
Arylcyclohexylamines are known to interact with receptors in the brain, particularly the NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) receptors, affecting the transmission of signals between neurons. This mechanism of action contributes to their ability to induce sedation, analgesia, and hallucinogenic effects.
Due to their pharmacological activities, arylcyclohexylamines have gained attention from scientists, clinicians, and regulatory agencies. Their use as recreational drugs has also been documented, although such use is often associated with significant risks and adverse effects. Research on these compounds focuses on understanding their molecular interactions, developing safer therapeutic alternatives, and exploring their potential in treating various medical conditions.
Etymology of ARYLCYCLOHEXYLAMINE
The word "arylcyclohexylamine" is composed of several morphemes.
1. "Aryl" is derived from the term "aryl group", which refers to a functional group in organic chemistry consisting of a ring of carbon atoms bonded to an aromatic ring or benzene ring. The term "aryl" comes from the German word "Aryl", which was used to describe coal tar derivatives.
2. "Cyclohexyl" is derived from "cyclohexane", which is a cycloalkane with the chemical formula C6H12. "Cyclohexyl" indicates the presence of a cyclohexane ring.
3. "Amine" is derived from the term "amine", which refers to a class of organic compounds that contain a nitrogen atom bonded to three hydrogen atoms or have a substituent derived from ammonia.
