Heterocycle (Noun)
Meaning 1
A ring of atoms of more than one kind; especially a ring of carbon atoms containing at least one atom that is not carbon.
Classification
Nouns denoting natural objects (not man-made).
Synonyms
Hypernyms
Related Words
Meaning 2
A compound containing a heterocyclic ring.
Classification
Nouns denoting substances.
Examples
- A heterocycle is typically defined as a compound that contains a heterocyclic ring, such as pyridine, which has a six-membered ring with one nitrogen atom.
- The discovery of new heterocycles with unique pharmacological properties has become a significant focus of modern medicinal chemistry research.
- Pyrimidine, a heterocycle found in nucleic acids, plays a crucial role in the transmission of genetic information within cells.
- Thiadiazole, a heterocycle with a five-membered ring containing sulfur and two nitrogen atoms, is used as an intermediate in the synthesis of various pharmaceuticals.
- The introduction of a heterocycle to a biomolecule can often enhance its binding affinity to a protein, making it a valuable strategy in the development of new drugs.