Chapter 10, Problem 51TQ

Summary Introduction

To review:

The occurrence of severe hemolytic anemia after ingestion of fava beans in individualswith glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase-deficiency, a condition known as favism.

Introduction:

The cellular reducing agent GSH (glutathione with reduced thiol group) is an antioxidant that helps in reducing the molecules. Fava beans have been used as staple food in regions where malaria is endemic. It contains two β (beta)-glycosides named vicine and convicine*. This vicine and convicinecontain aglycone components known as divicine and isouramil, respectively, which can oxidize GSH.

*Refer to book for structure