6-hydroxy-l-nicotine

6-hydroxy-l-nicotine (6HLN) is a derivative of nicotine formed through microbial degradation, notably by Arthrobacter nicotinovorans[7]. It is a monohydroxypyridine structurally related to nicotine[2]. Pharmacologically, 6HLN acts as a neurologically active small molecule with cognitive-enhancing, anxiolytic, antidepressant, neuroprotective, and anti-inflammatory effects demonstrated in animal models, particularly Alzheimer’s disease and anxiety/depression paradigms[1][3][7]. Mechanistically, 6HLN improves memory, learning, and mood by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase (AChE), elevating acetylcholine (ACh) levels, and modulating gene expression related to neuroplasticity (Bdnf, Arc, Npy, Egr1, Il-1β)[1]. It also exhibits minimal toxicity in normal cell lines and may have anti-inflammatory properties through modulation of cytokines such as IL1β and IL6[3]. There is no clinical approval or commercial use, but it is utilized in research settings.

Other names

6-hydroxy-nicotine6-hydroxynicotine6HLNCHEBI:247295-(1-methylpyrrolidin-2-yl)pyridin-2-ol5-(1-methylpyrrolidin-2-yl)pyridin-2(1h)-one