MERCAPTAMINE Meaning and
Definition
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Mercaptamine, also known as cysteamine, is an organic compound and a type of amino acid that contains a thiol group (-SH) as the functional group. It is derived from the amino acid cysteine by the removal of a carboxylic acid group (-COOH). Mercaptamine is mainly used as a pharmaceutical agent and is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
In the medical field, mercaptamine is commonly prescribed to treat a hereditary disease called cystinosis. This rare and progressive genetic disorder leads to an accumulation of the amino acid cystine within the cells, leading to various complications. Mercaptamine works by depleting the cystine levels in the cells, helping to delay or relieve the symptoms of cystinosis.
Apart from its utilization in cystinosis treatment, mercaptamine has shown potential in other medical applications. Due to its antioxidant properties, it can protect cells from harmful free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. As an anti-inflammatory agent, it may also help in mitigating inflammation in certain conditions.
It is important to note that mercaptamine should be used under medical supervision, as it may have certain side effects. Common adverse effects include gastrointestinal disturbances, skin rashes, and, in some cases, an odor similar to that of rotten eggs due to the thiol group present in the molecule.
In summary, mercaptamine is an amino acid derivative primarily used in the treatment of cystinosis, a hereditary condition characterized by cystine accumulation. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties make it a potential candidate for other medical applications as well.
Common Misspellings for MERCAPTAMINE
- nercaptamine
- kercaptamine
- jercaptamine
- mwrcaptamine
- msrcaptamine
- mdrcaptamine
- mrrcaptamine
- m4rcaptamine
- m3rcaptamine
- meecaptamine
- medcaptamine
- mefcaptamine
- metcaptamine
- me5captamine
- me4captamine
- merxaptamine
- mervaptamine
- merfaptamine
- merdaptamine
- merczptamine
Etymology of MERCAPTAMINE
The word "Mercaptamine" is a combination of two components: "mercapto" and "amine".
1. "Mercapto" comes from the Latin word "mercurius" meaning "mercury". It refers to the chemical element mercury, which has a strong affinity for sulfur. When sulfur is bonded to a carbon atom, it is known as a mercaptan.
2. "Amine" is derived from the ammonia molecule (NH3), which consists of one nitrogen atom and three hydrogen atoms. When one or more hydrogen atoms in ammonia are replaced by an organic group (such as an alkyl or aryl group), it is classified as an amine.
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