Artemisinins
Artemisinins
Artemisinins (/ɑːrtɪˈmiːsɪnɪnz/) are a group of drugs that possess the most rapid action of all current drugs against Plasmodium falciparum, the parasite that causes Malaria. They were discovered by Chinese scientist Tu Youyou, who was awarded the 2015 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for her work.
Etymology
The term "Artemisinin" is derived from the plant Artemisia annua, or sweet wormwood, from which the drug is extracted. The suffix "-in" is a common ending for drugs, indicating its medicinal nature.
Types of Artemisinins
Artemisinins are available in several forms, including:
- Artemether - A lipid soluble derivative of artemisinin.
- Artesunate - A water soluble derivative, often used for severe malaria.
- Dihydroartemisinin - The active metabolite of all artemisinin compounds.
Mechanism of Action
Artemisinins act on the intraerythrocytic (within red blood cells) stages of the Plasmodium lifecycle. They are activated by the iron in the parasite's food vacuole, leading to the production of free radicals that damage the parasite.
Resistance
Resistance to artemisinins has been reported in Southeast Asia. This is a major concern for global Malaria control efforts.
Side Effects
Common side effects of artemisinins include nausea, vomiting, and anorexia. More serious side effects, such as cardiac and liver toxicity, are rare.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Artemisinins
- Wikipedia's article - Artemisinins
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