Amanitins
Amanitins
Amanitins (pronunciation: /əˈmænɪtɪnz/) are a group of potent toxins produced by certain mushrooms, notably those in the genus Amanita.
Etymology
The term "Amanitins" is derived from the genus name Amanita, which is itself derived from Amanus, a mountain range in Turkey where these mushrooms are commonly found.
Description
Amanitins are cyclic peptides composed of eight amino acids. They are categorized as mycotoxins, which are toxic compounds produced by fungi. Amanitins are highly toxic and are responsible for the majority of fatal mushroom poisonings worldwide. They exert their toxic effects by inhibiting RNA polymerase II, a crucial enzyme involved in the synthesis of messenger RNA, transfer RNA, and small nuclear RNA in cells.
Related Terms
- Amanita: The genus of mushrooms that produce amanitins.
- Mycotoxin: A toxic compound produced by fungi.
- RNA polymerase II: The enzyme inhibited by amanitins, leading to their toxic effects.
Symptoms of Amanitin Poisoning
Symptoms of amanitin poisoning, also known as mushroom poisoning, typically begin 6 to 24 hours after ingestion of the toxic mushrooms. Initial symptoms may include severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. If left untreated, amanitin poisoning can cause severe liver and kidney damage, and can be fatal.
Treatment
Treatment for amanitin poisoning is primarily supportive, including rehydration and correction of electrolyte imbalances. There is no specific antidote for amanitin poisoning, but some experimental treatments have shown promise, including the use of silibinin, a compound derived from the milk thistle plant.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Amanitins
- Wikipedia's article - Amanitins
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