BENZYLISOQUINOLINE Meaning and
Definition
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Benzylisoquinoline is a chemical compound that falls under the broader category of isoquinolines. It consists of a benzene ring fused with an isoquinoline ring, where a benzylic (benzyl) group is attached to the isoquinoline backbone. The benzylic group refers to the presence of a benzene ring attached directly to a carbon atom adjacent to a functional group or carbon chain.
This class of compounds displays a diverse range of biological activities and pharmaceutical importance. Many benzylisoquinolines have been identified as alkaloids, which are naturally occurring substances known for their potent physiological effects on plants, animals, and humans. Some well-known benzylisoquinoline alkaloids include morphine, codeine, papaverine, and noscapine.
Benzylisoquinoline alkaloids have been extensively studied due to their various properties, including analgesic (pain-relieving), antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, and cardiovascular effects. They often interact with specific receptors in the central nervous system, affecting neurotransmission and inducing biological responses.
In addition to their natural occurrence, benzylisoquinoline alkaloids can also be synthesized via chemical methods, which has led to the development of numerous synthetic drugs. The structural complexity of benzylisoquinolines has made them an attractive area of research in the discovery and development of new pharmaceuticals.
Overall, benzylisoquinoline is a chemical compound characterized by the fusion of a benzene ring and an isoquinoline ring, often found in alkaloids with diverse biological activities and therapeutic potential.
Etymology of BENZYLISOQUINOLINE
The word "benzylisoquinoline" is a compound term made up of three parts: "benzyl", "iso", and "quinoline".
- "Benzyl" refers to the benzyl group, which is a substituent derived from benzene. Benzene is a ring-shaped hydrocarbon composed of six carbon atoms and six hydrogen atoms (C6H6).
- "Iso" is a prefix meaning "equal" or "similar". In the context of chemistry, it signifies a variation of an existing compound, indicating a structural similarity to the original compound.
- "Quinoline" is a type of heterocyclic compound, which means it is composed of atoms from at least two different elements. Quinoline has a molecular structure consisting of a benzene ring fused to a pyridine ring, resulting in a bicyclic structure.
