Uridine

Description

Uridine is one of the four basic components of ribonucleic acid (RNA), which is crucial for the synthesis of RNA and membranes. It helps in normal cell function and growth by forming pyrimidine nucleotide -lipid conjugates. Uridine has been studied as a rescue agent to reduce the toxicities associated with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), thereby allowing the administration of higher doses of 5-FU in chemotherapy regimens.

Chemical properties

White powder; odorless; slightly acrid and faintly sweet taste. Soluble in water; slightly soluble in dilute alcohol; insoluble in strong alcohol.

The Uses of Uridine

Uridine is a nucleoside; widely distributed in nature. Uridine is one of the four basic components of ribonucleic acid (RNA) ,which contains a uracil attached to a ribose ring via a β-N1-glycosidic bond.

Definition

ChEBI: Uridine is a ribonucleoside composed of a molecule of uracil attached to a ribofuranose moiety via a beta-N(1)-glycosidic bond. It has a role as a human metabolite, a fundamental metabolite and a drug metabolite. It is functionally related to a uracil.

Biochem/physiol Actions

Uridine monophosphate is essential for protein glycosylation, polysaccharide biosynthesis and lipid metabolism. Oral administration of uridine is suggested for anisopoikilocytosis and epileptic encephalopathy disorders. Uridine has numerous biological functions like treating dry eye syndrome, regulating nervous system and favors reproduction. High levels of uridine are implicated in insulin resistance.