XANTHINE BASE Meaning and
Definition
-
Xanthine base refers to a type of nitrogenous compound that belongs to the xanthine family. Xanthine bases are heterocyclic molecules derived from purine, a nitrogen-containing compound found in DNA, RNA, and other cellular components. These compounds are known for their characteristic xanthine ring structure, which consists of two fused rings made up of carbon and nitrogen atoms.
Xanthine bases are widely distributed in natural sources, such as coffee, tea, and chocolate, as well as in the body fluids and tissues of humans and animals. Examples of xanthine bases include caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline. These compounds are commonly known for their stimulant effects on the central nervous system, which can enhance alertness and temporarily relieve fatigue.
Beyond their stimulatory properties, xanthine bases also possess other physiological effects. They can act as smooth muscle relaxants, particularly in the bronchial muscles. Therefore, xanthine base derivatives like theophylline are often used as bronchodilators to treat respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Additionally, these compounds have diuretic properties and can increase urine production.
In summary, xanthine bases are a group of nitrogenous compounds that possess a distinct xanthine ring structure. These compounds are found naturally in various sources and possess stimulant properties on the central nervous system. They can also act as bronchodilators and have diuretic effects, leading to their use in the treatment of respiratory conditions and as therapeutic agents.
-
Alloxur b., purine b., a group of nitrogenous bodies resulting from the splitting up of nucleins; such are xanthine, hypoxanthine, guanine, and adenine.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for XANTHINE BASE
- zanthine base
- canthine base
- danthine base
- santhine base
- xznthine base
- xsnthine base
- xwnthine base
- xqnthine base
- xabthine base
- xamthine base
- xajthine base
- xahthine base
- xanrhine base
- xanfhine base
- xanghine base
- xanyhine base
- xan6hine base
- xan5hine base
- xantgine base
- xantbine base
Etymology of XANTHINE BASE
The word "xanthine" comes from the Greek word "xanthos", meaning "yellow". The suffix "-ine" in chemistry is used to indicate a compound derived from or related to another compound. Therefore, "xanthine" refers to a compound that is related to or derived from something yellow. The term "xanthine base" is used in the field of biochemistry to refer to a group of nitrogenous compounds that are found in various tissues and have a yellow color.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
