Chemical Forums

Specialty Chemistry Forums => Biochemistry and Chemical Biology Forum => Topic started by: stubby_knight on November 29, 2006, 02:54:29 AM

Title: d-Penicillamine and Zinc
Post by: stubby_knight on November 29, 2006, 02:54:29 AM

Hello all

I am new to this board and need some *delete me*  I am not a chemist and know absolutely nothing about this, but have a question.  To me it is a very tough question, so if no one knows the answer I'll just live with that.  I've also posted this same message on the organic chemistry board FYI.

D-penicillamine or C₅H₁₁NO₂S (it takes 2 of these molecules per copper atom) reacts with Cu and O₂ producing the chelant and HOOH (hydrogen peroxide).  This then is thought to interfere with lymphocyte mitogenesis.

Question, when zinc is tossed into the equation what likely happens?

Does zinc react with hydrogen peroxide afterwards or does it interfere with d-penicillamine efficacy?  Or does something else occur?

If anyone knows the answer, thank you very much!  :)