Psoralens
| Definition: |
Linear furanocoumarins which are found in many PLANTS, especially UMBELLIFERAE and RUTACEAE, as well as PSORALEA from which they were originally discovered. They can intercalate DNA and, in an UV-initiated reaction of the furan portion, alkylate PYRIMIDINES, resulting in PHOTOSENSITIVITY DISORDERS. |
| Notes: |
dermatol agents; do not confuse with the specific drug PSORALEN see FICUSIN; do not index here for psoralens in PUVA THERAPY unless particularly discussed |
| Also Called: |
Furocoumarins |
| Previously Indexed: |
Coumarins (1966-1978),Furans (1966-1978) |
Psoralens Categories.
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Ficusin - A naturally occuring furocoumarin, found in PSORALEA. After photoactivation with UV radiation, it binds DNA via single and double-stranded cross-linking. |
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Khellin - A vasodilator that also has bronchodilatory action. It has been employed in the treatment of angina pectoris, in the treatment of asthma, and in conjunction with ultraviolet light A, has been tried in the treatment of vitiligo. (From Martindale, The Extra Pharmacopoeia, 30th ed, p1024) |
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Methoxsalen - A naturally occurring furocoumarin compound found in several species of plants, including Psoralea corylifolia. It is a photoactive substance that forms DNA ADDUCTS in the presence of ultraviolet A irradiation. |
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Trioxsalen - Pigmenting photosensitizing agent obtained from several plants, mainly Psoralea corylifolia. It is administered either topically or orally in conjunction with ultraviolet light in the treatment of vitiligo. |
Psoralens Definitions and Terms
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