AMINOPTERIN Meaning and
Definition
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Aminopterin is a synthetic derivative of folic acid that acts as a potent and highly selective inhibitor of dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR), an enzyme involved in the biosynthesis of nucleic acids purines and pyrimidines. It is classified as an antineoplastic agent and has demonstrated significant anticancer properties.
Aminopterin is primarily used as a chemotherapeutic drug in the treatment of certain types of cancer, particularly acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). By inhibiting DHFR, a crucial enzyme in the synthesis of DNA, RNA, and protein, aminopterin blocks cancer cell proliferation and induces apoptosis, leading to tumor regression.
Beyond its antineoplastic effects, aminopterin is also employed in certain autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis due to its immunosuppressive properties. It suppresses the activity of immune cells and reduces the production of inflammatory cytokines, thereby alleviating symptoms associated with these conditions.
However, aminopterin is a highly potent and toxic agent, and its clinical use is limited. The administration of aminopterin requires careful monitoring and dosage adjustment to minimize its side effects. Common adverse effects include gastrointestinal disturbances, bone marrow suppression, and hepatotoxicity. The drug also carries the risk of birth defects and should be avoided during pregnancy or when trying to conceive.
In summary, aminopterin is a synthetic derivative of folic acid with potent anticancer properties due to its inhibition of DHFR. It is primarily used in the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia and certain autoimmune disorders. However, its use is restricted due to its high toxicity and potential for adverse effects.
Common Misspellings for AMINOPTERIN
- zminopterin
- sminopterin
- wminopterin
- qminopterin
- aninopterin
- akinopterin
- ajinopterin
- amunopterin
- amjnopterin
- amknopterin
- amonopterin
- am9nopterin
- am8nopterin
- amibopterin
- amimopterin
- amijopterin
- amihopterin
- aminipterin
- aminkpterin
- aminlpterin
Etymology of AMINOPTERIN
The word "Aminopterin" has its roots in the Latin language. It is derived from the Latin word "aminum", which means "amino", and "pterin", which refers to a compound containing the pteridine ring system. Aminopterin is a drug that belongs to the class of folic acid analogs, originally discovered in the mid-20th century.
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