Dextro

Dextro

Dextro is a term that is often used in various scientific and medical contexts. It is derived from the Latin word "dexter," meaning "right" or "on the right side." The term is commonly used to describe the orientation or direction of certain molecules, anatomical structures, and physiological processes.

Dextro in Chemistry

In chemistry, "dextro" refers to the chirality or optical activity of a molecule. A molecule that is "dextro" (or dextrorotatory) rotates the plane of polarized light to the right, or clockwise. This is denoted by the prefix "(+)" or "d-". The opposite of dextro is levo, which refers to molecules that rotate light to the left, or counterclockwise.

Dextro in Anatomy

In anatomy, "dextro" is used to describe the position or orientation of certain body parts. For example, dextrocardia is a rare congenital condition in which the heart is situated on the right side of the body instead of the left. Similarly, dextroscoliosis refers to a type of scoliosis where the spine curves to the right.

Dextro in Pharmacology

In pharmacology, the term "dextro" is often used to describe the specific enantiomer of a drug that is more pharmacologically active. For instance, dextromethorphan is a common cough suppressant that is the dextro isomer of the compound levomethorphan.

Related Terms

• Chirality
• Optical isomerism
• Dextrocardia
• Dextroscoliosis
• Dextromethorphan
• Levo

See Also

• Levo
• Chirality
• Optical isomerism
• Dextrocardia
• Dextroscoliosis
• Dextromethorphan