How Do You Spell VANILLYLMANDELIC ACID?

Pronunciation: [vˌanɪlˌɪlmandˈɛlɪk ˈasɪd] (IPA)

Vanillylmandelic acid is a chemical compound used as a biomarker for neuroblastoma, a type of cancer usually found in children. The spelling of this term can be puzzling for non-experts due to its unusual combination of sounds. According to its IPA phonetic transcription, vanillylmandelic acid is pronounced /vəˌnɪliːlˌmændəˌlɪk ˈæsɪd/. The letter "y" is pronounced as "i," and "mandelic" is spelled with an "e" rather than an "a." This compound's spelling follows a standard set of rules from scientific nomenclature.

Meaning and Definition
Etymology
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VANILLYLMANDELIC ACID Meaning and Definition

  1. Vanillylmandelic acid (VMA) is a compound that is produced in the body as a breakdown product of catecholamines, which are neurotransmitters involved in numerous physiological processes. It is specifically derived from epinephrine and norepinephrine, which are hormones secreted by the adrenal glands.

    Vanillylmandelic acid is clinically significant due to its utility as a biomarker for assessing adrenal gland function and various neuroendocrine tumors, particularly those originating from adrenal medulla (such as neuroblastoma and pheochromocytoma). It is commonly measured in urine samples through a laboratory test known as the vanillylmandelic acid test, which can detect abnormal levels of the compound.

    This organic acid is characterized by its molecular structure, consisting of a phenolic hydroxyl group attached to a benzene ring, which is in turn connected to a carboxyl group and a methyl group. It is soluble in water and exhibits weak acidic properties. Its chemical formula is C9H10O5 and its systematic name is 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylacetic acid.

    Vanillylmandelic acid serves as a valuable diagnostic tool in the evaluation of conditions associated with catecholamine excess, including neuroendocrine tumors and adrenal gland disorders. Its measurement helps healthcare professionals to monitor and manage these conditions appropriately.

Etymology of VANILLYLMANDELIC ACID

The word "vanillylmandelic acid" is composed of three parts:

1. Vanillyl: This part of the word is derived from "vanillyl", which is derived from "vanilla". It refers to the chemical compound called vanillin, which is the primary component responsible for the characteristic flavor and scent of vanilla.

2. Mandelic: The term "mandelic" is derived from "mande", which is a modern variant of "mandal", an ancient Greek word meaning "almond". The term "mandelic" is often used to describe compounds that are structurally related to bitter almond oil.

3. Acid: This refers to the "acid" part of the compound, indicating that vanillylmandelic acid is an acid.

Therefore, the term "vanillylmandelic acid" appropriately describes a chemical compound that is a derivative of vanillin, related to almonds, and possesses acidic properties.