MONOCROTALINE Meaning and
Definition
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Monocrotaline is a naturally occurring pyrrolizidine alkaloid that is primarily found in plants belonging to the Crotalaria genus, specifically Crotalaria spectabilis, Crotalaria retusa, and related species. It is a toxic compound known for its highly poisonous effects on various organisms, including humans and animals.
As a toxic substance, monocrotaline poses several harmful effects upon ingestion or exposure. It is a potent hepatotoxin, causing severe damage to liver cells and impairing liver function. Additionally, it is nephrotoxic, adversely affecting kidney function and leading to renal failure in high doses. Studies have also revealed its teratogenic properties, indicating that it has the potential to cause birth defects in pregnant animals and humans.
Furthermore, monocrotaline is known for its strong pulmonary arterial vasoconstrictive effects. It damages the endothelial cells lining the pulmonary arteries, leading to the thickening of the arterial walls and the development of pulmonary hypertension. This condition, characterized by increased blood pressure within the lungs, can eventually lead to significant cardiovascular complications and respiratory distress.
Due to its toxic properties, monocrotaline is extensively studied in the context of toxicology research. Scientists investigate its mechanisms of toxicity, its metabolic pathways, and potential therapeutic interventions to counteract its detrimental effects. Understanding monocrotaline's toxic characteristics is paramount for identifying its presence, preventing exposure, and developing strategies to manage its harmful consequences on human health and the environment.
Common Misspellings for MONOCROTALINE
- nonocrotaline
- konocrotaline
- jonocrotaline
- minocrotaline
- mknocrotaline
- mlnocrotaline
- mpnocrotaline
- m0nocrotaline
- m9nocrotaline
- mobocrotaline
- momocrotaline
- mojocrotaline
- mohocrotaline
- monicrotaline
- monkcrotaline
- monlcrotaline
- monpcrotaline
- mon0crotaline
- mon9crotaline
- monoxrotaline
Etymology of MONOCROTALINE
The word "Monocrotaline" has a specific etymology that can be broken down as follows:
1. Mono-: This prefix is derived from the Greek word "monos", meaning "single" or "alone". It is commonly used in scientific and technical terminology to indicate singularity or unity.
2. Crotaline: This word is derived from the genus name "Crotalus", which refers to a group of venomous pit vipers commonly known as rattlesnakes. The name "Crotalus" is derived from the Greek word "krotalon", meaning "rattle" or "castanet", referring to the sound produced by the rattlesnake's tail. The suffix "-ine" in this context indicates a particular compound or substance.
