Alkapton (Noun)
Meaning
An acid formed as an intermediate product of the metabolism of tyrosine and phenylalanine.
Classification
Nouns denoting substances.
Examples
- Alkapton is accumulated in the body as a result of a deficiency in the enzyme homogentisate dioxygenase.
- Tyrosine and phenylalanine metabolism leads to the formation of alkapton in some individuals with genetic disorders.
- The presence of alkapton in the urine can indicate a case of alkaptonuria, a rare genetic disorder.
- Alkapton is oxidized and binds to collagen and other tissues, resulting in dark pigmentation of these tissues over time.
- The accumulation of alkapton in the body may lead to chronic inflammation and various health complications.