METHYLMALONIC ACID Meaning and
Definition
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Methylmalonic acid is a compound classified as an organic acid, specifically a dicarboxylic acid. It is a derivative of malonic acid that contains a methyl group attached to one of the carbon atoms. Its chemical formula is C4H6O4.
Methylmalonic acid is an important metabolite in the human body that plays a vital role in various metabolic pathways. It is primarily involved in the breakdown of certain amino acids, particularly valine, isoleucine, and methionine. It acts as an intermediate in the conversion of these amino acids to succinyl-CoA, which is a key molecule in the citric acid cycle, also known as the tricarboxylic acid cycle or Krebs cycle.
Elevated levels of methylmalonic acid in the blood or urine can be indicative of certain metabolic disorders, particularly those affecting the metabolism of vitamin B12. Deficiencies or impairments in the enzymes responsible for the conversion of methylmalonyl-CoA to succinyl-CoA can lead to a buildup of methylmalonic acid in the body. This can cause various health problems, such as megaloblastic anemia, neurological abnormalities, and developmental delays.
The measurement of methylmalonic acid levels is often used as a diagnostic tool in assessing vitamin B12 deficiency and in monitoring the efficacy of treatment. Elevated levels can be indicative of an underlying condition, and prompt medical attention and appropriate treatment are necessary in such cases.
Common Misspellings for METHYLMALONIC ACID
- nethylmalonic acid
- kethylmalonic acid
- jethylmalonic acid
- mwthylmalonic acid
- msthylmalonic acid
- mdthylmalonic acid
- mrthylmalonic acid
- m4thylmalonic acid
- m3thylmalonic acid
- merhylmalonic acid
- mefhylmalonic acid
- meghylmalonic acid
- meyhylmalonic acid
- me6hylmalonic acid
- me5hylmalonic acid
- metgylmalonic acid
- metbylmalonic acid
- metnylmalonic acid
- metjylmalonic acid
- metuylmalonic acid
Etymology of METHYLMALONIC ACID
The word "methylmalonic acid" has a scientific origin and its etymology can be broken down as follows:
1. Methyl: The prefix "methyl" derives from the Greek word "methy" which means "wine" or "intoxicated". In chemistry, "methyl" refers to a chemical group consisting of one carbon atom bonded to three hydrogen atoms (CH3-).
2. Malonic: The term "malonic" comes from the root "malon-", which originates from the Greek word "malos" meaning "apple". This term was chosen due to the compound's sour taste, resembling that of apples.
3. Acid: The word "acid" comes from the Latin word "acidus", which means "sour" or "sharp". It refers to a class of compounds that typically possess a sour taste and have the ability to donate a proton (H+ ion).
