2-Thiouracil

Chemical properties

white to cream fine crystalline powder

The Uses of 2-Thiouracil

2-Thiouracil has been used in the synthesis and characterization of silver colloid and film substrates and their applications in surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS)

The Uses of 2-Thiouracil

Reagent used in the preparation of Antithyroid agents.

Definition

ChEBI: A nucleobase analogue that is uracil in which the oxo group at C-2 is replaced by a thioxo group.

Biochem/physiol Actions

2-Thiouracil is a thio-derivative of uracil, a pyrimidine nucleobase. It acts as an anticancer, antithyroid, and antiviral agent. 2-Thiouracil is a selective melanoma-seeker and competitive inhibitor of neuronal nitric oxide synthase. It also forms complexes with transition metals such as gold (Au), Chromium (Cr), Zinc (Zn), and Silver (Ag).

Safety Profile

Moderately toxic by ingestion. Human teratogenic effects by unspecified routes: developmental abnormalities of the central nervous system, craniofacial area, and endocrine system. Human reproductive effects by unspecified route: effects on newborn, including viabllity index changes. Experimental teratogenic effects. Other experimental reproductive effects. Questionable carcinogen with experimental neoplastigenic and tumorigenic data. Mutation data reported. When heated to decomposition it emits very toxic fumes of NOx and SOx. Used in the treatment of hyperthyroidism, angina pectoris, and congestive heart failure. See also MERCAPTANS and KETONES.

Purification Methods

Crystallise 2-thiouracil from water or EtOH. [Beilstein 24 H 323, 24 I 315, 24 II 171, 24 III/IV 1237.]