Alpha-Naphthylthiourea
- Alpha-Naphthylthiourea
Alpha-Naphthylthiourea (ANTU) is a chemical compound that has been historically used as a rodenticide. It is known for its acute toxicity to certain species of rodents, particularly rats, while being less toxic to other animals. ANTU is a thiourea derivative and is recognized for its specific mode of action that affects the respiratory system of rodents.
Chemical Properties[edit | edit source]
Alpha-Naphthylthiourea is an organosulfur compound with the chemical formula C₁₀H₇NCSNH₂. It is a white crystalline solid that is relatively insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents. The compound is characterized by the presence of a naphthyl group attached to a thiourea moiety.
Mechanism of Action[edit | edit source]
ANTU exerts its toxic effects primarily by causing pulmonary edema in susceptible rodents. Upon ingestion, ANTU is absorbed into the bloodstream and transported to the lungs, where it disrupts the normal function of the pulmonary capillaries. This disruption leads to increased permeability of the capillary walls, resulting in fluid accumulation in the lung tissue and subsequent respiratory distress.
Uses[edit | edit source]
Historically, ANTU was used as a rodenticide due to its effectiveness in controlling rat populations. However, its use has declined due to the development of safer and more effective alternatives, as well as concerns about its environmental impact and non-target toxicity.
Safety and Toxicity[edit | edit source]
While ANTU is highly toxic to rodents, it poses a lower risk to humans and other non-target species when used appropriately. However, exposure to high doses can still be hazardous. Symptoms of ANTU poisoning in humans may include nausea, vomiting, and respiratory distress. Proper handling and usage guidelines are essential to minimize risks.
Regulation[edit | edit source]
Due to its potential environmental and health impacts, the use of ANTU is regulated in many countries. It is important to adhere to local regulations and guidelines when handling or disposing of this compound.
Also see[edit | edit source]
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
|
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
| Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Translate this page: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
தமிழ்,
తెలుగు,
Urdu,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
বাংলা
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
Greek,
português do Brasil,
polski,
română,
русский,
Nederlands,
norsk,
svenska,
suomi,
Italian
Middle Eastern & African
عربى,
Turkish,
Persian,
Hebrew,
Afrikaans,
isiZulu,
Kiswahili,
Other
Bulgarian,
Hungarian,
Czech,
Swedish,
മലയാളം,
मराठी,
ਪੰਜਾਬੀ,
ગુજરાતી,
Portuguese,
Ukrainian
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
