OKADAIC ACID Meaning and
Definition
-
Okadaic acid is a naturally occurring marine toxin that is produced by several species of dinoflagellates, a type of microscopic algae. It is known to cause diarrhetic shellfish poisoning (DSP) in humans when contaminated shellfish, such as mussels, clams, or oysters, are consumed.
Chemically, okadaic acid is classified as a polyether fatty acid compound. It has a cyclic structure with 11 fused rings, and a long carbon chain with hydroxyl groups attached at various positions. This unique structure plays a key role in its toxic effects.
Okadaic acid primarily targets the gastrointestinal system when ingested. It acts as a potent inhibitor of protein phosphatases, enzymes responsible for dephosphorylation of proteins and regulation of cell signaling processes. By inhibiting these enzymes, okadaic acid disrupts essential cellular functions, triggering a cascade of events that result in severe diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. The symptoms usually occur within a few hours after consuming contaminated seafood and can last for several days.
Due to its highly toxic nature, okadaic acid is closely monitored in shellfish harvesting areas to ensure the safety of seafood consumption. Its detection is performed using specialized analytical methods, such as liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. Regulatory standards and guidelines have been established to limit okadaic acid levels in seafood products to protect public health.
Common Misspellings for OKADAIC ACID
- ikadaic acid
- kkadaic acid
- lkadaic acid
- pkadaic acid
- 0kadaic acid
- 9kadaic acid
- ojadaic acid
- omadaic acid
- oladaic acid
- ooadaic acid
- oiadaic acid
- okzdaic acid
- oksdaic acid
- okwdaic acid
- okqdaic acid
- okasaic acid
- okaxaic acid
- okacaic acid
- okafaic acid
- okaraic acid
Etymology of OKADAIC ACID
The word "Okadaic" derives from the compound's discovery by Japanese scientist Tamao Okada. Okadaic acid was first isolated from the marine sponge Halichondria okadai, named after Tamao Okada himself. The term "acid" refers to the compound's acidic chemical properties.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
