xanthine
- noun
- /ˈzænˌθin/
- Specialized
- The levels of xanthine in tissues can indicate the efficiency of nucleic acid metabolism in the organism.
- xanthine dehydrogenase
- xanthine oxidase activity
Examples
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But taking supplements of lutein and xanthine has shown in many studies to improve the pigment layers in the back of the eye.
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In the same protein extract from the primary root tip, the activity of xanthine dehydrogenase was not heavily influenced by MeJA (Fig. 1, upper bands).
Academic text (2015) -
This assay utilizes a tetrazolium salt for the detection of superoxide radicals generated by xanthine oxidase and hypoxanthine.
Blog text (23) -
The cost of cellulite removal using creams and gels such as retinoids, xanthines, and alpha hydroxy acids is usually $45-$150 for a six-month supply.
Blog text (3) -
Xanthine is a compound produced during the breakdown of nucleic acids and can be found in various fluids within the body.
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In the human body, xanthine serves as a precursor to uric acid, which plays a role in the metabolism of purines.
Surface Forms
Morphology
xanthine = xanth + ine
Although historically built from the combining form 'xanth-' (yellow) + the chemical suffix '-ine', the combining form is not a standalone English word and the resulting chemical name is technical, so an average B1 learner cannot derive the meaning from the parts.
Etymology
Xanthine comes from the Greek root xanth- meaning 'yellow' and the chemical ending -ine. So, even though xanthine itself is often colorless, its name shows it belongs to a group of related chemicals that were noticed for a yellow colour.