Illudin: Difference between revisions

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'''Illudin''' is a type of [[natural product]] that is derived from the [[Jack O'Lantern mushroom]] (''Omphalotus olearius''). It is known for its [[cytotoxic]] properties, which have led to its use in the development of [[anticancer drugs]].
== Illudin ==


== History ==
[[File:Illudin_family.svg|thumb|right|Diagram of the Illudin family of compounds]]


Illudin was first isolated from the Jack O'Lantern mushroom in the 1950s. Since then, it has been the subject of extensive research due to its potential use in cancer treatment.
Illudin refers to a group of natural sesquiterpenes that are primarily found in certain species of mushrooms, notably those belonging to the genus ''[[Omphalotus]]''. These compounds are known for their toxic properties and have been studied for their potential use in [[cancer]] treatment due to their ability to induce [[apoptosis]] in cancer cells.


== Structure and Properties ==
=== Chemical Structure ===
Illudins are characterized by their unique chemical structure, which includes a bicyclic framework. The most well-known members of this family are illudin S and illudin M. These compounds are structurally related to other sesquiterpenes but are distinguished by their reactive epoxide group, which is believed to be responsible for their biological activity.


Illudin is a small molecule with a unique structure that includes a [[cyclopropane]] ring. This structure is responsible for its cytotoxic properties. Illudin is highly reactive, which allows it to bind to [[DNA]] and cause damage.
=== Biological Activity ===
Illudins exhibit potent cytotoxic effects, which have been attributed to their ability to alkylate [[DNA]]. This property makes them of interest in the development of [[chemotherapy]] agents. However, their high toxicity also poses significant challenges in therapeutic applications.


== Use in Cancer Treatment ==
=== Medical Research ===
Research into illudins has focused on modifying their structure to reduce toxicity while retaining anticancer activity. One such derivative, [[irofulven]], has shown promise in clinical trials. Irofulven is a semisynthetic analog of illudin S and has been studied for its effectiveness against various types of cancer, including [[prostate cancer]] and [[ovarian cancer]].


Illudin's cytotoxic properties have led to its use in the development of anticancer drugs. One such drug is [[Irofulven]], which is a semi-synthetic derivative of Illudin. Irofulven has been used in clinical trials for the treatment of various types of cancer, including [[prostate cancer]] and [[ovarian cancer]].
=== Toxicity ===
The toxicity of illudins is a major concern, as ingestion of mushrooms containing these compounds can lead to severe [[gastrointestinal]] distress and [[liver]] damage. The mechanism of toxicity is thought to involve the formation of DNA adducts, leading to cell death.


== Toxicity ==
== Related Pages ==
 
* [[Omphalotus]]
While Illudin has potential therapeutic uses, it is also highly toxic. Ingestion of the Jack O'Lantern mushroom can lead to severe gastrointestinal symptoms, including vomiting and diarrhea. In addition, exposure to Illudin can cause DNA damage, which can lead to cell death.
* [[Sesquiterpene]]
 
* [[Apoptosis]]
== See Also ==
* [[Chemotherapy]]
 
* [[Natural product]]
* [[Cytotoxicity]]
* [[Anticancer drug]]
* [[Irofulven]]
* [[Irofulven]]
* [[DNA damage]]
[[Category:Natural products]]
[[Category:Cytotoxic drugs]]
[[Category:Anticancer drugs]]
[[Category:DNA damage]]


{{stub}}
[[Category:Sesquiterpenes]]
[[Category:Mycotoxins]]
[[Category:Antineoplastic drugs]]

Latest revision as of 03:50, 13 February 2025

Illudin[edit]

Diagram of the Illudin family of compounds

Illudin refers to a group of natural sesquiterpenes that are primarily found in certain species of mushrooms, notably those belonging to the genus Omphalotus. These compounds are known for their toxic properties and have been studied for their potential use in cancer treatment due to their ability to induce apoptosis in cancer cells.

Chemical Structure[edit]

Illudins are characterized by their unique chemical structure, which includes a bicyclic framework. The most well-known members of this family are illudin S and illudin M. These compounds are structurally related to other sesquiterpenes but are distinguished by their reactive epoxide group, which is believed to be responsible for their biological activity.

Biological Activity[edit]

Illudins exhibit potent cytotoxic effects, which have been attributed to their ability to alkylate DNA. This property makes them of interest in the development of chemotherapy agents. However, their high toxicity also poses significant challenges in therapeutic applications.

Medical Research[edit]

Research into illudins has focused on modifying their structure to reduce toxicity while retaining anticancer activity. One such derivative, irofulven, has shown promise in clinical trials. Irofulven is a semisynthetic analog of illudin S and has been studied for its effectiveness against various types of cancer, including prostate cancer and ovarian cancer.

Toxicity[edit]

The toxicity of illudins is a major concern, as ingestion of mushrooms containing these compounds can lead to severe gastrointestinal distress and liver damage. The mechanism of toxicity is thought to involve the formation of DNA adducts, leading to cell death.

Related Pages[edit]