adenosine

n. a compound in living cells consisting of an adenine molecule and a ribose sugar molecule. Adenosine functions as a neuromodulator: By binding to special adenosine receptors, it influences the release of several neurotransmitters in the central nervous system. Combined with three phosphate units, adenosine becomes ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which functions as an energy source in metabolic activities.

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Psychology term of the day

December 18th 2024

isoniazid

n. a drug of choice for the treatment of tuberculosis. Use of the drug can cause a form of neuritis by blocking the function of pyridoxine (vitamin B₆) in metabolizing glutamic acid to form the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid. Isoniazid is structurally related to a known monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), iproniazid, and was reputed to have some antidepressant activity, although it is not clinically used in this role and is not an MAOI. Also called isonicotinic acid hydrazide (INH).