HIPPURIC ACID Meaning and
Definition
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Hippuric acid is an organic compound that naturally occurs in the urine of mammals. It is derived from the reaction between benzoic acid and the amino acid glycine in the liver. Structurally, hippuric acid consists of a benzene ring attached to a carboxyl group (COOH) and an amino group (NH2) through an amide bond. Its chemical formula is C9H9NO3.
Hippuric acid is excreted in the urine by the kidneys as a waste product of metabolism. It plays a significant role in maintaining the pH balance of urine, as it acts as a weak acid and contributes to its slightly acidic nature.
The presence and measurement of hippuric acid in urine can be used as a marker of exposure to certain substances, including certain industrial chemicals, drugs, and certain foods. For instance, high levels of hippuric acid may indicate exposure to toluene, a solvent commonly found in paints and adhesives.
Hippuric acid also possesses antibacterial and antioxidant properties. Studies have suggested its potential benefits in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, and it has been investigated for its potential use in various medical applications.
In conclusion, hippuric acid is a naturally occurring organic compound found in mammalian urine. It contributes to the slightly acidic nature of urine, plays a role in maintaining pH balance, and can serve as an indicator of exposure to certain substances. It also possesses antibacterial and antioxidant properties and has potential medical applications.
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An acid, C9H9NO3, occurring normally in the urine of the horse and other herbivorous animals; it is found in human urine sometimes, especially in cases of diabetes mellitus.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for HIPPURIC ACID
- hippuric aaid
- hippuric abid
- hippuric acyd
- hippuric acad
- hippuric acmd
- hippuric achd
- hippuric acit
- hippuric acil
- h ippuric acid
- hippu ric acid
- hippur ic acid
- hippuri c acid
- hippuric a cid
- hippuric ac id
- hippuric aci d
Etymology of HIPPURIC ACID
The word "hippuric" comes from the Greek word "hippos", meaning horse, and "ouron", meaning urine. "Hippuric acid" got its name because it was first discovered in the urine of horses.
Similar spelling words for HIPPURIC ACID
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