Quinine (CED0001330)

Quinine belongs to the cinchona alkaloids, a class of alkaloids and derivatives within the organic compounds. It has the formula C20H24N2O2 and an average molecular weight of 324.42 g/mol. This exogenous compound is a solid at room temperature. It is categorized as a drug (PMC8778081) and a biological alkaloid (PMC10369409). Quinine is used as an antimalarial (PMC7833388), a non-narcotic analgesic, and a muscle relaxant. Its industrial applications include use as a deodorizer and as a softener and conditioner. In terms of health effects, it is used in the treatment of malaria (PMC11943490, PMC13294913, PMC1492602, PMC7833388) and leishmaniasis (PMC11943490). The compound's protein targets include Hemoglobin subunit alpha (HBA1), Platelet glycoprotein IX (GP9), and Intermediate conductance calcium-activated potassium channel protein 4 (KCNN4). The theorized mechanism of action for quinine is that it is toxic to the malaria parasite by interfering with the parasite's ability to break down and digest hemoglobin, which causes the parasite to starve or build up toxic levels of partially degraded hemoglobin. Quinine is found in 22 recorded sources, including healthcare, pharmaceuticals and veterinary products such as antiprotozoals and drugs for disorders of the musculo-skeletal system. Other sources include food and food processing items like the preparation of wine or sparkling wine, vinegar, malt, wort, and molasses; household cleaning and consumer products such as tobacco pipes and non-electric simulated smoking devices; building and construction materials such as floors; and electrical and electronic equipment including magnets, relays, antennas, and electric hearing aids. The recorded exposure route for quinine is oral.