Uramilic acid is a chemical compound with the molecular formula C5H4N4O3. Its name is pronounced as /jʊˈræ.mɪ.lɪk ˈæ.sɪd/, with the stress on the second syllable of 'uramilic' and the first syllable of 'acid'. The spelling of the word 'uramilic' reflects the inclusion of the prefix 'ura-' which indicates the involvement of uracil in the formation of the acid. The 'milic' component of the name highlights the acid's relationship with mellitic acid, while the '-ic' ending denotes that it is a carboxylic acid.
Uramilic acid is a chemical compound belonging to the family of uric acid derivatives. Chemically, it is known as 2,6,8-trioxo-2,6,8-trihydropurine-9-carboxylic acid. Uramilic acid can be synthesized through the oxidation of xanthine or hypoxanthine, two purine derivatives, under certain conditions.
In terms of physical properties, uramilic acid appears as a white crystalline powder with a molecular formula C6H4N4O5. It is sparingly soluble in water and has a melting point of approximately 320-322 °C.
Uramilic acid is primarily used in laboratory research and chemical analyses, particularly in the field of biochemistry and medicinal chemistry. It serves as a precursor compound in various synthetic processes to obtain biologically active derivatives.
Uramilic acid and its derivatives have exhibited inhibitory effects on some enzymes involved in oxidative stress, suggesting potential antioxidant properties. Therefore, it may have potential therapeutic applications in the treatment of certain disorders related to oxidative stress such as neurodegenerative diseases.
In conclusion, uramilic acid is a chemical compound derived from uric acid, possessing potential antioxidant properties. Although it is primarily used in laboratory research, it holds promise for future applications in the field of medicine and pharmaceuticals.
Dialuramic acid, C8H9N5O7, derived from uramil by treating with sulphuric acid.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "uramilic acid" is composed of two parts:
1. "Uramil-" is derived from "uramil", which is a combination of "ur-" and "-amil".
- "Ur-" is a prefix that originates from the German word "Urin", meaning "urine".
- "-amil" is a suffix used to indicate the presence of an amide group (-CO-NH2).
2. "Acid" refers to a substance that has a sour taste, can turn blue litmus paper red, and typically has a pH less than 7.
Therefore, the etymology of "uramilic acid" suggests that the word refers to an acid derivative with characteristics related to urine, specifically containing an amide group.