Open AccessStudies on ochronosis. II. Studies on benzoquinoneacetic acid, a probable intermediate in the connective tissue pigmentation of alcaptonuria
Author(s) -
Zani Vincent G.,
Malawista Stephen E.,
La Du Bert N.
Publication year - 1962
Publication title -
arthritis & rheumatism
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1529-0131
pISSN - 0004-3591
DOI - 10.1002/art.1780050603
Subject(s) - homogentisic acid , ochronosis , alkaptonuria , connective tissue , chemistry , biochemistry , pathology , medicine
Benzoquinoneacetic acid, the quinone of homogentisic acid, given intraperitoneally to guinea pigs is distributed mainly into skin and cartilage, as found previously with homogentisic acid. In contrast to homogentisic acid, benzoquinoneacetic acid reacts chemically with proteins and homogenates of skin and cartilage in vitro to give products which may be similar to those formed during the development of ochronotic pigmentation of the connective tissues in alcaptonuria. The physical and chemical events leading to ochronosis are discussed.