Chelerythrine is a chemical compound used in medicine and research. Its spelling can be broken down using IPA phonetic transcription as: /kɛləraɪθraɪn/. This word is pronounced with a short "e" sound in the first syllable, followed by the consonant cluster "l-r" and a long "i" sound in the second syllable. The final syllable contains the sound "th" followed by "r" and a long "i" sound. The spelling of Chelerythrine may be difficult for non-native speakers to pronounce correctly.
Chelerythrine is a noun that refers to a toxic isoquinoline alkaloid found in various plant species, including the popular medicinal plant, Chelidonium majus or greater celandine. It is a bright yellowish-orange, crystalline compound with a distinctive bitter taste.
In terms of chemical structure, chelerythrine consists of a benzyl group attached to a phenanthridine ring system, and it is typically synthesized through plant secondary metabolisms. Its chemical formula is C21H18NO4+.
Known for its pharmacological properties, chelerythrine exhibits a broad range of biological activities, making it of interest in medical research. It has exhibited potential anticancer properties by inhibiting the growth of cancer cells, inducing apoptosis (programmed cell death), and interfering with cell signaling pathways. Moreover, it possesses antibacterial effects, as it has shown to inhibit the growth of several Gram-positive bacterial strains, including those responsible for common infections.
However, it is essential to note that chelerythrine is highly toxic and can pose significant health risks if ingested or improperly handled. It can cause severe irritation to the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes, as well as gastrointestinal discomfort and respiratory distress. Therefore, precautions should be taken when handling chelerythrine or any product containing it.
Overall, chelerythrine holds significant potential for its various pharmacological properties, making it a subject of interest in scientific research focused on drug discovery and development.
Pyrrhopine, an alkaloid, C21H17NO4, from chelidonium, and found also in small amount in sanguinaria.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "Chelerythrine" is derived from the scientific name of a plant called Chelidonium majus, commonly known as greater celandine. The compound Chelerythrine was first isolated from this plant and named after it. The word "Chelidonium" is derived from the Greek word "chelidōnion", which means "a swallow", as the plant was believed to bloom when swallows returned in spring.