Salicyluric acid

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Salicyluric acid is a major metabolite of salicylic acid, which is the active component of aspirin. It is formed in the liver through the process of glycine conjugation. Salicyluric acid is excreted in the urine and is an important marker for the metabolism of salicylic acid in the body.

Biochemistry

Salicyluric acid is produced when salicylic acid undergoes conjugation with glycine. This reaction is catalyzed by the enzyme glycine N-acyltransferase. The process occurs primarily in the liver, where salicylic acid is first activated to form salicyl-CoA, which then reacts with glycine to form salicyluric acid.

Excretion

After its formation, salicyluric acid is excreted through the kidneys into the urine. The excretion of salicyluric acid is a major route for the elimination of salicylic acid from the body. The measurement of salicyluric acid in urine can be used to monitor the intake and metabolism of salicylic acid.

Clinical Significance

The presence of salicyluric acid in urine is used as a biomarker to assess exposure to salicylic acid and its derivatives, such as aspirin. Elevated levels of salicyluric acid can indicate excessive intake of salicylic acid, which may lead to salicylate poisoning. Monitoring salicyluric acid levels can be important in clinical settings to ensure safe and effective use of salicylate-containing medications.

Related Compounds

Salicyluric acid is related to other metabolites of salicylic acid, including gentisic acid and salicyl phenolic glucuronide. These metabolites are also involved in the excretion and detoxification of salicylic acid in the body.

See Also

• Salicylic acid
• Aspirin
• Metabolite
• Glycine
• Liver
• Urine
• Salicylate poisoning