Furocoumarin
Furocoumarin
Furocoumarin (pronounced: fyoor-oh-koo-muh-rin) is a type of organic compound that belongs to the class of Coumarin derivatives.
Etymology
The term "Furocoumarin" is derived from the words "furan" and "coumarin". "Furan" is a heterocyclic organic compound, while "coumarin" is a fragrant organic compound. The term "Furocoumarin" thus refers to coumarin derivatives that have a furan ring attached to them.
Description
Furocoumarins are found in a variety of plants, including some species of the Rutaceae and Apiaceae families. They are known for their ability to cause photosensitivity reactions, a property that has been exploited in the treatment of skin diseases such as Psoriasis and Vitiligo.
Furocoumarins are also known to interact with certain medications, leading to what is known as the "grapefruit juice effect". This refers to the ability of grapefruit juice, which contains furocoumarins, to increase the bioavailability of certain drugs, potentially leading to an overdose.
Related Terms
- Psoralen: A type of furocoumarin that is used in PUVA therapy for the treatment of psoriasis, eczema, and vitiligo.
- Bergapten: A specific type of furocoumarin found in bergamot oil.
- Angelica archangelica: A plant species in the Apiaceae family that contains furocoumarins.
- Ruta graveolens: A plant species in the Rutaceae family that contains furocoumarins.
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