Thalidomide drug molecule
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Thalidomide drug molecule
Thalidomide (C13.H10.N2.O4) molecular model. The atoms are colour-coded: carbon (yellow), hydrogen (white), nitrogen (blue) and oxygen (red). This is R-thalidomide, a mirror image (enantiomer) of S- thalidomide, both of which share the same structural formula. Thalidomide was developed as a sedative drug to aid sleep in pregnant woman. It was found to cause foetal abnormalities (stunted limbs, or phocomelia), and was withdrawn in 1961. Further research discovered that only the " S" form caused deformities. A purified drug containing only the " R" enantiomer is now being used to treat leprosy and as an anti-cancer drug. See A624/155 for an image of S-thalidomide
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6279887
© DR TIM EVANS/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Antineoplastic Atomic Atoms Compound Compounds Drug Enantiomer Hypnotic Leprosy Molecules Pharmaceutical Pharmaceutics Pregnancy Sedative Sleeping Structural Teratogen Thalidomide Bio Chemistry Biochemical Complications Molecular
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate molecular structure of Thalidomide, a drug that had a profound impact on medical history. The atoms in this model are color-coded, with carbon represented by yellow, hydrogen by white, nitrogen by blue, and oxygen by red. Specifically depicted here is R-thalidomide, one of two mirror image enantiomers alongside S-thalidomide. Originally developed as a sedative to aid sleep in pregnant women, Thalidomide tragically caused severe foetal abnormalities such as stunted limbs or phocomelia. Consequently, it was swiftly withdrawn from the market in 1961 due to these devastating birth defects. However, subsequent research revealed an intriguing twist: only the "S" form of Thalidomide was responsible for causing deformities. This discovery paved the way for further investigation and purification efforts resulting in a drug containing solely the "R" enantiomer. Today, this purified version of Thalidomide finds valuable applications beyond its initial intent. It serves as an essential treatment for leprosy and exhibits promising anti-cancer properties. Its journey from being associated with complications during pregnancy to becoming an effective pharmaceutical compound highlights both its complex biochemistry and its potential therapeutic benefits. This thought-provoking artwork not only captures the beauty of molecular structures but also reminds us of the significant scientific advancements made possible through diligent research and understanding within chemistry and medicine fields alike.
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