How Do You Spell DOMOIC ACID?

Pronunciation: [dˈɒmə͡ʊɪk ˈasɪd] (IPA)

Domoic acid (/doʊˈmoʊɪk æsɪd/) is a toxic amino acid produced by some species of diatoms, a type of algae. The spelling of the word is derived from the name of the species that first produced it, Nitzschia domoica. The phonetic transcription shows that the word is pronounced as "doe-moe-ik acid." Domoic acid can cause amnesic shellfish poisoning in humans and sea mammals, leading to symptoms such as seizures, disorientation, and memory loss. It is important to monitor the levels of domoic acid in seafood to prevent poisoning.

DOMOIC ACID Meaning and Definition

1. Domoic acid is a naturally occurring compound that is classified as a neurotoxin, specifically an excitatory amino acid. It is produced by certain types of phytoplankton, such as species within the genus Pseudo-nitzschia, and can accumulate in various marine organisms, particularly shellfish (such as mussels, clams, and crabs) and fish. This acid is known for its strong toxic effects on the nervous system.

   Exposure to domoic acid primarily occurs through the consumption of contaminated seafood. Once ingested, domoic acid is readily absorbed and transported across the blood-brain barrier, where it causes damage to nerve cells by overstimulating their receptors. This can lead to a condition known as amnesic shellfish poisoning in humans, characterized by symptoms such as gastrointestinal distress, confusion, memory loss, seizures, and in severe cases, coma or death.

   Due to the potential health risks associated with domoic acid, regulatory agencies closely monitor levels of this compound in seafood, implementing strict guidelines and closures of affected harvesting areas. This helps protect consumers from potential poisoning incidents.

   Researchers continue to study domoic acid and its effects on marine ecosystems and human health. Understanding its production, accumulation, and mechanisms of toxicity is vital for effective management and prevention strategies to mitigate the risks associated with this neurotoxin.

Common Misspellings for DOMOIC ACID

• somoic acid
• xomoic acid
• comoic acid
• fomoic acid
• romoic acid
• eomoic acid
• dimoic acid
• dkmoic acid
• dlmoic acid
• dpmoic acid
• d0moic acid
• d9moic acid
• donoic acid
• dokoic acid
• dojoic acid
• domiic acid
• domkic acid
• domlic acid
• dompic acid
• dom0ic acid

Etymology of DOMOIC ACID

The word "domoic acid" has its etymology derived from the Japanese word "domo", which means "thanks" or "very much". It was named after the domoic acid-producing microorganisms found in the oceans, specifically Pseudo-nitzschia species, which were discovered in 1987 by scientists investigating a happening in which large numbers of seabirds died along the coast of California. The name "domoic acid" was given to the compound because of the gratitude expressed by researchers upon identifying the cause of the mass bird deaths.

Plural form of DOMOIC ACID is DOMOIC ACIDS