Cadaverine is a chemical compound with the molecular formula C5H14N2. The word cadaverine is often misspelled as "cadavarine," which is incorrect. The word cadaverine is pronounced /kæˈdævəriːn/, with the stress on the second syllable. The word is derived from the Latin word "cadaver," which means "corpse," and the suffix "-ine," which is used to denote amines. Cadaverine is found in decaying animal flesh, and it is known for its putrid odor.
Cadaverine is a naturally occurring, colorless, viscous liquid organic compound that belongs to the family of diamines. It is commonly referred to as a putrescine, a foul-smelling substance that is found in decaying animal and plant matter. With a chemical formula of C5H14N2, cadaverine is produced by the bacterial breakdown of amino acids, particularly lysine, during the process of putrefaction.
The name "cadaverine" originates from its strong resemblance in smell to decaying flesh. As such, it is often associated with the characteristic odor of rotting flesh, making it a significant chemical component contributing to the putrid scent of decomposed bodies.
Cadaverine is often used in medical and forensic research to simulate the smell of decaying flesh for training or testing purposes. Additionally, it has found applications in certain industrial processes, such as the production of nylon-510, and has been investigated for its potential antimicrobial properties.
Despite its unpleasant odor, cadaverine is deemed crucial for nature's recycling system, as it helps break down organic matter and facilitate the decomposition process. While primarily associated with its connection to decomposition, cadaverine holds scientific interest for its unique chemical properties and potential applications across various fields.
A ptomaine, C5H16N2, formed during putrid decomposition of the human body, a heavy, foul-smelling liquid.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "cadaverine" is derived from the Latin word "cadaver", which means "corpse". The suffix "-ine" is commonly used in chemistry to indicate that a compound is derived from a specific source or possesses a certain characteristic. In this case, "cadaverine" refers to a foul-smelling organic compound that is found in decaying flesh, hence its association with corpses.