Xanthine

Xanthin_-_Xanthine.svg

Xanthine

Xanthine is a purine base found in most human body tissues and fluids and in other organisms. It plays a crucial role in the metabolism of nucleotides and is a precursor to uric acid. Xanthine is derived from the degradation of adenine and guanine, which are two of the four nucleobases in the nucleic acids DNA and RNA.

Biochemistry

Xanthine is produced during the breakdown of purine nucleotides. The enzyme xanthine oxidase catalyzes the oxidation of xanthine to uric acid, which is then excreted in the urine. This process is part of the purine metabolism pathway. Elevated levels of xanthine can lead to the formation of xanthine stones in the kidneys.

Medical Relevance

Xanthine and its derivatives, such as theophylline, theobromine, and caffeine, are known as xanthines. These compounds have various pharmacological effects, including bronchodilation, stimulation of the central nervous system, and diuresis. Xanthine derivatives are used in the treatment of conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Xanthinuria

Xanthinuria is a rare genetic disorder characterized by the deficiency of xanthine oxidase, leading to the accumulation of xanthine in the blood and urine. This condition can result in the formation of xanthine stones and can cause renal failure if not managed properly.

See Also

• Purine metabolism
• Xanthine oxidase
• Uric acid
• Theophylline
• Theobromine
• Caffeine
• Xanthinuria

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