Anisatin
Anisatin
Anisatin (pronounced: an-ee-sa-tin) is a potent neurotoxin found in the plant species Illicium anisatum, commonly known as the Japanese star anise.
Etymology
The term "Anisatin" is derived from the Latin anisum, meaning anise, and the suffix -atin, a common ending for toxins. This is in reference to the plant species in which it is found, the Japanese star anise.
Description
Anisatin is a sesquiterpene lactone, a class of organic compounds that are known for their various bioactive properties. It is a potent noncompetitive antagonist for the GABA receptor, a type of protein that responds to the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). By blocking these receptors, anisatin can cause severe neurotoxic effects, including convulsions and death.
Related Terms
- Neurotoxin: A type of poison that affects the nervous system.
- Sesquiterpene: A class of organic compounds that includes anisatin.
- GABA receptor: A type of protein that responds to the neurotransmitter GABA and is blocked by anisatin.
- Illicium anisatum: The plant species in which anisatin is found.
See Also
- Illicium verum: A related plant species that is used as a spice and does not contain anisatin.
- GABA: The neurotransmitter that is blocked by anisatin.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Anisatin
- Wikipedia's article - Anisatin
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