SWAINSONINE Meaning and
Definition
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Swainsonine refers to a natural alkaloid compound that is primarily found in plants belonging to the genera of Astragalus, Swainsona, and Oxytropis. It is characterized by its ability to inhibit the enzyme α-mannosidase, which plays a crucial role in the post-translational modification of glycoproteins. The compound was first isolated and named after the British botanist William Swainson.
In terms of its pharmacological aspects, swainsonine has gained significant attention due to its potent activity against glycoprotein processing. Its inhibition of α-mannosidase results in the accumulation of mannose-rich glycoproteins, leading to an array of biological effects. Swainsonine has been studied for its potential therapeutic applications, particularly in the field of cancer research. It has demonstrated the ability to disrupt tumor cell growth, induce apoptosis, and hinder metastasis by interfering with the production of certain glycoproteins involved in these processes.
However, it is important to note that while swainsonine has shown promise in certain experimental contexts, it also possesses toxic effects. The compound has been linked to a condition known as locoism in livestock, where animals that consume swainsonine-containing plants exhibit neurological symptoms and progressive weight loss. Therefore, it is advisable to exercise caution when considering the potential medical applications of swainsonine and to conduct further research to fully understand its mechanisms of action and potential side effects.
Common Misspellings for SWAINSONINE
Etymology of SWAINSONINE
The word "Swainsonine" is derived from the name of an English naturalist and ornithologist Charles Swainson (1789-1855), who was notable for his contributions to the field of zoology.
The term "Swainsonine" was coined to honor his work and recognizes his significant contributions to the study of birds.
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