Homogentisic acid
Homogentisic acid (pronunciation: ho·mo·gen·tis·ic acid) is a compound associated with the metabolic pathway of tyrosine, an amino acid. It is also known as melanic acid or 2,5-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid.
Etymology
The term "Homogentisic acid" is derived from the Greek words 'homos' meaning 'same', 'gen' meaning 'produce', and 'tisic' referring to 'acid'. The name reflects the compound's role in the production of the same acid during the metabolic process of tyrosine.
Biochemical Role
Homogentisic acid is an intermediate compound in the metabolism of the amino acid tyrosine. It is produced by the action of the enzyme p-hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase and is further broken down by the enzyme homogentisate 1,2-dioxygenase.
Clinical Significance
In a rare genetic disorder known as Alkaptonuria, the enzyme homogentisate 1,2-dioxygenase is deficient, leading to an accumulation of homogentisic acid in the body. This can result in darkening of the urine and other tissues, a condition known as ochronosis.
Related Terms
- Tyrosine
- Amino Acid
- Metabolism
- p-hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase
- homogentisate 1,2-dioxygenase
- Alkaptonuria
- Ochronosis
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Homogentisic acid
- Wikipedia's article - Homogentisic acid
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