Ouabain
Ouabain
Ouabain (pronounced: wah-bane) is a plant-derived toxin that has been used for centuries in Africa for hunting and traditional medicine. It is a cardiac glycoside and acts by inhibiting the Na+/K+-ATPase enzyme, leading to an increase in intracellular calcium levels and enhanced cardiac contractility.
Etymology
The term "ouabain" originates from the Somali name for the plant from which it is derived, Acokanthera ouabaio. The plant is also known as "ouabaio" or "arrow poison tree".
Related Terms
- Cardiac Glycoside: A type of compound that increases the force of heart contractions and slows the rate of the heartbeat. Ouabain is a type of cardiac glycoside.
- Na+/K+-ATPase: An enzyme found in the plasma membrane of all animal cells. It is inhibited by ouabain, leading to its effects on cardiac contractility.
- Calcium: An essential mineral in the human body. Increased intracellular levels of calcium, as caused by ouabain, can enhance cardiac contractility.
- Toxin: A harmful substance produced within living cells or organisms. Ouabain is a toxin derived from the Acokanthera ouabaio plant.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Ouabain
- Wikipedia's article - Ouabain
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