Acetylcysteine

Pronunciation

Definition 1

A drug usually used to reduce the thickness of mucus and ease its removal. It is also used to reverse the toxicity of high doses of acetaminophen. Also called N-acetyl-L-cysteine and N-acetylcysteine. (NCI Dictionary)

Definition 2

A synthetic N-acetyl derivative of the endogenous amino acid L-cysteine, a precursor of the antioxidant enzyme glutathione. Acetylcysteine regenerates liver stores of glutathione. This agent also reduces disulfide bonds in mucoproteins, resulting in liquification of mucus. Some evidence suggests that acetylcysteine may exert an anti-apoptotic effect due to its antioxidant activity, possibly preventing cancer cell development or growth. In addition, acetylcysteine has inhibited viral stimulation by reactive oxygen intermediates, thereby producing antiviral activity in HIV patients. (NCI Thesaurus)

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE

Acetylcholinesterase Measurement

The determination of the amount of acetylcholinesterase present in a sample.

Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitor

Any substance that inhibits acetylcholinesterase (AchE), an enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine (Ach) in the synaptic cleft. Inhibition of acetylcholinesterase results in…

Acetylcholine Receptor Antibody Measurement

The determination of the amount of acetylcholine receptor antibody present in a sample.

Acetylcholine Measurement

The determination of the amount of acetylcholine hormone present in a sample.

Acetylcholine Chloride

The chloride salt form of acetylcholine, a synthetic, quaternary amino alcohol with cholinergic properties. Acetylcholine chloride mimics the parasympathomimetic effect of the…

Acetylcholine

A chemical made by some types of nerve cells. It is used to send messages to other cells, including other nerve…