Methionine sulfoximine

Methionine sulfoximine is a non-proteinogenic amino acid that is used as a neurotoxin and glutamine synthetase inhibitor. It is a derivative of the amino acid methionine, and is often used in biochemical research to inhibit the enzyme glutamine synthetase.

Structure and Properties

Methionine sulfoximine is a sulfoximine, a class of organic compounds that contain a sulfinyl functional group. The molecule consists of a methionine residue in which the sulfur atom is oxidized to a sulfoximine group. This modification gives methionine sulfoximine unique properties compared to the parent amino acid.

Biological Activity

Methionine sulfoximine acts as a potent inhibitor of the enzyme glutamine synthetase, which is responsible for the conversion of glutamate and ammonia into glutamine. By inhibiting this enzyme, methionine sulfoximine can disrupt the balance of amino acids in the body, leading to a variety of physiological effects.

In addition to its role as a glutamine synthetase inhibitor, methionine sulfoximine has also been found to have neurotoxic properties. It has been used in research to induce seizures and study the mechanisms of neurological disorders such as epilepsy.

Use in Research

Due to its ability to inhibit glutamine synthetase and induce seizures, methionine sulfoximine is often used in biochemical research. It is particularly useful in studies investigating the role of glutamine synthetase in the brain, as well as in research into the mechanisms of epilepsy and other neurological disorders.

Safety and Toxicity

As a neurotoxin and enzyme inhibitor, methionine sulfoximine can be harmful if ingested or absorbed into the body. It is important to handle this compound with care and use appropriate safety measures when working with it in a laboratory setting. Template:Amino-acid-stub

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