BRUCINE Meaning and
Definition
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Brucine is a strong, bitter, alkaloid compound derived from the seeds of various plants belonging to the Strychnos species, particularly Strychnos nux-vomica. It is a structural isomer of another alkaloid called strychnine and shares some similar toxic properties. Brucine is a white, crystalline powder that is highly soluble in alcohol and chloroform and slightly soluble in water. It possesses a distinct bitter taste, even in extremely dilute concentrations.
In terms of usage, brucine has been historically employed in medicine and pharmacy for its properties as a potent central nervous system stimulant and muscle relaxant. However, due to its high toxicity, it is no longer commonly used for therapeutic purposes. Instead, it is primarily utilized today as a reagent in chemical reactions, particularly in the realm of organic synthesis and analytical chemistry, where its distinctive properties can be leveraged effectively.
Brucine’s toxic nature is chiefly attributed to its ability to interfere with the normal functioning of the central nervous system. It acts as an antagonist for glycine receptors in the spinal cord and brain, leading to hyperexcitability and convulsions. Additionally, it can have a negative impact on cardiac muscle, potentially causing arrhythmias and even cardiac arrest in high doses.
Given its strong bitterness and high toxicity, brucine should be handled with extreme caution. It is often considered a hazardous substance, warranting strict safety protocols and appropriate protective measures when dealing with it.
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An alkaloid from Strychnos nux vomica and S. ignatia, resembling strychnine in its properties, but less poisonous; tonic in doses of gr. 1/12-1/2 (0.005-0.03).
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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A vegetable alkaloid extracted from an African plant.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for BRUCINE
- vrucine
- nrucine
- hrucine
- grucine
- beucine
- bducine
- bfucine
- btucine
- b5ucine
- b4ucine
- brycine
- brhcine
- brjcine
- bricine
- br8cine
- br7cine
- bruxine
- bruvine
- brufine
Etymology of BRUCINE
The word "brucine" derives from the name of the botanist and explorer James Bruce (1730-1794). Brucine is a chemical alkaloid found in certain plants, particularly in the seeds of the Strychnos nux-vomica tree. It was named in honor of Bruce for his contributions to botany and his exploration of Africa, during which he collected specimens of the Strychnos plant.
Similar spelling words for BRUCINE
- brezhnev,
- bracken,
- bruckman,
- brick in,
- brezina,
- brackman,
- breeziness,
- bruckner,
- brackeen,
- brackins,
- brachinus,
- brockman,
- brackens,
- brickner,
- brachium,
- bracing,
- Brickman,
- briceno,
- brackney,
- brackin,
- brezinski.
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