Bufagin

Bufagin
Identifiers
Properties
C24H34O5
Molar mass 402.531 g·mol−1
Density 1.240 g/cm3[1]
Melting point 212-213 ˚C[2]
Except where otherwise noted, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C [77 °F], 100 kPa).

Bufagin is a toxic steroid C24H34O5[3] obtained from toad's milk, the poisonous secretion of a skin gland on the back of the neck of a large toad (Rhinella marina, synonym Bufo marinus, the cane toad). The toad produces this secretion when it is injured, scared or provoked. Bufagin resembles chemical substances from digitalis in physiological activity and chemical structure.

Bufagin also refers to any of several similar substances found as components of the mixture bufotoxin in secretions of other toads, as well as plants and mushrooms.

  1. ^ Crowfoot, Dorothy (1935). "X-ray crystallography of the toad poisons bufagin and cinobufagin and of strophanthidin". Chemistry & Industry (London, United Kingdom): 568-9.
  2. ^ Jensen, H.; Evans, E.A. (February 1934). "Chemical Studies on Toad Poisons". Journal of Biological Chemistry. 104 (2): 307–316. doi:10.1016/S0021-9258(18)75767-0.
  3. ^ ChemicalBook: bufagin