Suramin is an antiparasitic drug, which blocks endothelial cell proliferation and increases tyrosine phosphorylation of many signalling proteins. It is associated with urticaria, paresthesias, vomiting and neurologic toxicity. Suramin is used to treat trypanosomiasis and onchocerciasis. It functions as an inhibitor of heparanase and also exhibits anti-AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) property.
Synonyms: Suramine sodium salt
Molecular Formula: C51H34N6Na6O23S6
Molecular Weight: 1429.17
Linear Structural Formula: C51H34N6Na6O23S6
MDL Number: MFCD00210217
Purity: >=98% (TLC)
Application: Suramin sodium salt has been used:
•as a potent blocker of rat P2Y2 purinergic receptor
•to study its effects on short circuit current (Isc) across strial marginal cells
•to show its effects on initial burst of glial activity
•to assess its neuroprotective potential in rats
•as a purinoceptor inhibitor, to explore the mechanism of action of extracellular adenosine triphosphate (eATP)
Biochem Physiol Actions: Suramin is a polysulfonated naphthylurea anticancer agent that inhibits tumor cell proliferation. It inhibits the activity of topoisomerase II by blocking the binding of the enzyme to DNA. It's antiangiogenic activity may be related to its ability to bind to and inhibit the activity of several growth factors, including FGFa, FGFb, and PGDF. It uncouples G-proteins from receptors. It is an broad spectrum antagonist at P2X and P2Y purinergic receptors. Suramin has well documented antiprotozoal and anthelmintic activity.