GLUCURONIDE Meaning and
Definition
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A glucuronide refers to a type of conjugate molecule formed by the attachment of the glucuronic acid moiety to various other molecules, resulting in the formation of a glucuronide bond. Glucuronic acid, a derivative of glucose, serves as the primary substrate for this conjugation process. Glucuronidation involves the addition of the glucuronic acid molecule to endogenous substances, such as bilirubin, as well as exogenous compounds like drugs, xenobiotics, and various metabolic byproducts.
Glucuronidation is an essential phase II reaction in the metabolism of many substances, especially in the liver, where it primarily takes place. This reaction is catalyzed by the enzyme family called UDP-glucuronosyltransferases (UGTs), which transfers the glucuronic acid from UDP-glucuronic acid to the target molecule, leading to the formation of a glucuronide conjugate. These glucuronide conjugates are, in turn, more easily excreted from the body via the kidneys as part of urine or through the bile.
The formation of glucuronide conjugates plays a crucial role in the detoxification and elimination of numerous endogenous and exogenous compounds. Glucuronidation enhances the solubility of the original substance, increasing its polar nature and facilitating its removal from the body. Glucuronides are generally considered to be more water-soluble and less reactive than their parent molecules.
Common Misspellings for GLUCURONIDE
- flucuronide
- vlucuronide
- blucuronide
- hlucuronide
- ylucuronide
- tlucuronide
- gkucuronide
- gpucuronide
- goucuronide
- glycuronide
- glhcuronide
- gljcuronide
- glicuronide
- gl8curonide
- gl7curonide
- gluxuronide
- gluvuronide
- glufuronide
- gluduronide
- glucyronide
Etymology of GLUCURONIDE
The word "glucuronide" is derived from the combination of two terms: "glucose" and "uronic acid".
The term "glucose" comes from the French word "glucose", which was coined by French chemist and pharmacist René-Alexandre-Antoine Ollive in 1838. It is a modified form of the Greek word "glykys", meaning "sweet". Glucose refers to a simple sugar that serves as a primary source of energy in living organisms.
The term "uronic acid" originates from "uronic", which is derived from "urine". Uronic acid was first discovered in oxidized uric acid, a compound that was previously identified in urine. The uronic acid structure was described by German chemist Carl Wilhelm Scheele in the late 18th century.
