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Huperzine A
Huperzine A
General
Systematic name 1-Amino-13-ethylidene-11-methyl-
6-aza-tricyclo[7.3.1.02,7]trideca-
2(7),3,10-trien-5-one
Other names HupA
Molecular formula C15H18N2O
SMILES CC3=CC1/C(C(C3)(N)C
(C=CC2=O)=C(N2)C1)=C\C
Molar mass 242.32 g/mol
Appearance ?
CAS number [102518-79-6]
Properties
Density and phase ? g/cm3, ?
Solubility in water ? g/100 ml (? °C)
Melting point 217-219 °C (? K)
Boiling point ? °C (? K)
Basicity (pKb) ?
Chiral rotation [α]D -147° (c = 0.36, MeOH)
Hazards
MSDS External MSDS
Main hazards ?
NFPA 704
Flash point ? °C
R/S statement R: ?
S: ?
RTECS number ?
Related compounds
Related compounds ?
Except where noted otherwise, data are given for
materials in their standard state (at 25 °C, 100 kPa)
Infobox disclaimer and references

Huperzine A, is a naturally occurring sesquiterpene alkaloid found in the extracts of the firmoss Huperzia serrata. The extract has been used in China for centuries for the treatment of swelling, fever and blood disorders. Recently in clinical trials in China, it has demonstrated neuroprotective effects. It is currently being investigated as a possible treatment for diseases characterized by neurodegeneration – particularly Alzheimer’s disease.

Huperzine A has attracted the attention of Western medical science. It has been found to be an inhibitor of the enzyme acetylcholinesterase. This is the same mechanism of action of pharmaceutical drugs such as galantamine and donepezil used to treat Alzheimer's disease.

Clinical trials in China have shown that huperzine A is comparably effective to the drugs currently on the market, and may even be a bit safer in terms of side effects. Currently, the National Institute on Aging is conducting a Phase II clinical trial to evaluate the safety and efficacy of huperzine A in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease in a randomized controlled trial of its effect on cognitive function.

References[]

  • Zangara, A. The psychopharmacology of huperzine A: an alkaloid with cognitive enhancing and neuroprotective properties of interest in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Pharmacol Biochem Behav. 2003 Jun;75(3):675-86.
  • Bai, D. L.; Tang, X. C.; He, X. C. Huperzine A, a potential therapeutic agent for treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Current Medicinal Chemistry , 2000, vol. 7, iss. 3, p. 355-374.
  • Tang, X. C.; He, X. C.; Bai, D. L. Huperzine A: a novel acetylcholinesterase inhibitor. Drugs of the Future, 1999, vol. 24, iss 6, p. 647-663.
  • Kozikowski, Alan P.; Tueckmantel, Werner. Chemistry, Pharmacology, and Clinical Efficacy of the Chinese Nootropic Agent Huperzine A. Accounts of Chemical Research, 1999, vol 32, iss 8, p. 641-650.


External links[]

de:Huperzin
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