Xanthaline is a chemical compound, also known as 9H-xanthene-9-carboxylic acid. Its spelling can be explained through the use of IPA phonetic transcription: /zænˈθəliːn/. The "x" is pronounced as a voiced velar fricative, similar to the "gz" sound in "exhaust", while the "th" is pronounced as an unvoiced dental fricative, similar to the "th" sound in "think". The "a" is pronounced as a short vowel sound, while the "e" is pronounced as a long vowel sound. The "i" is pronounced as a long "e" sound, and the final "ne" is pronounced as a long "n" sound followed by a short "e" sound.
Xanthaline is a term used in the field of chemistry to refer to a class of organic compounds that contain a specific molecular structure known as the xanthine skeleton. The xanthine skeleton is composed of a bicyclic heterocyclic system, consisting of two rings connected together by nitrogen atoms.
Xanthalines are commonly associated with alkaloids, which are naturally occurring organic compounds found in various plants and animals. Some well-known examples of xanthaline alkaloids include caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline. These compounds are notably present in higher quantities in products like coffee, tea, cocoa, and certain species of plants.
Xanthalines exhibit various biological activities and are often recognized for their stimulant properties. For example, caffeine acts as a central nervous system stimulant and is widely consumed for its ability to enhance mental alertness and reduce feelings of fatigue. Theophylline, on the other hand, is used for its bronchodilator effects and is often prescribed for the treatment of respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Overall, xanthaline compounds are characterized by their unique molecular structure and their presence in several natural products. Their diverse pharmacological properties make them significant compounds of interest for both medicinal and pharmaceutical research.
An alkaloid, C37H35N2O5, derived from the mother liquor of morphine.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.