The biological functions and side effects of Uridine

Description

Uridine is a nucleoside containing the uracil bonded to a sugar ring (carbohydrate ribofuranose) through a β-N1-glycosidic bond, and that makes it essential for cellular function and growth, being a component to the synthesis of RNA and biomembranes via the formation of pyrimidine–lipid conjugates. As a natural nucleoside precursor of uridine monophosphate in organisms, it is considered safe and used in a wide range of clinical settings[1].

Biological functions

Uridine has been shown to have a significant impact on various brain functions, including the synthesis of neuronal membrane phospholipids and the protection of brain cells from hypoxia-ischemia. This molecular compound is present not only in the brain but also in the liver, heart, muscles, kidneys, blood plasma, bone marrow, tissues, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Furthermore, uridine has been identified as a potential protective agent for a range of diseases, such as ischemic heart disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, schizophrenia, epilepsy, cancer, and vascular dementia. Beyond its already-established applications, uridine has also been found to play other important roles[2-3]. For example, it has been shown to counter the toxicity of pyrimidine-based anticancer drugs, provide therapy for gastrointestinal toxicity caused by 5-fluorouracil, and act as a physiological regulator of sleep function.;

Dietary supplement

Uridine is a dietary supplement used in the food industry as an ingredient in functional foods. It is used to enhance the flavor and texture of food products and provide additional health benefits. Uridine has been shown to improve cognitive function, reduce stress, and improve mood. It is also used to increase the absorption of other nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids, and reduce cardiovascular disease risk. Uridine is often added to energy drinks, sports drinks, other beverages, breakfast cereals, snack bars, and other food products.

Side effects

There are some potential risks associated with taking this supplement. These include an increased risk of bleeding, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It may also interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, and can cause an allergic reaction in some people.

References

[1] B, Zhe Cao A , et al. "Uridine homeostatic disorder leads to DNA damage and tumorigenesis." (2016).

[2]Szterner, PiotrAmaral, Luisa M. P. F.Morais, Victor M. F.Ribeiro da Silva, Maria D. M. C.Ribeiro da Silva, Manuel A. V. "Energetic characterization of a bioactive compound: Uridine." The Journal of Chemical Thermodynamics 124(2018).

[3] Ekaterina V Rozova. “Uridine as a protector against hypoxia-induced lung injury.” Scientific Reports (2019): 9418.

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