beta-aminopropionitrile

Beta-aminopropionitrile (BAPN) is a small organic compound known for its ability to inhibit lysyl oxidase (LOX) and LOX-like (LOXL) enzymes, which are crucial for cross-linking collagen and elastin in connective tissue. BAPN is the principal toxic component of certain Lathyrus (sweet pea) plants and is responsible for lathyrism, a disorder causing connective tissue abnormalities (osteolathyrism and angiolathyrism) in animals and humans when consumed in large quantities[1][2][3]. Biomedically, BAPN has been explored as an antirheumatic agent in veterinary medicine and an investigative tool or experimental agent in fibrotic and neoplastic diseases, as its inhibition of LOX activity impedes collagen maturation and can reduce pathological fibrosis[3][8][9]. It has also been considered for use in cancer models and studied for its effects in animal models of aortic disease, wound healing, and lung fibrosis[3][7][9]. Its experimental and clinical use in humans has been limited due to toxicity—including potential for connective tissue weakness and teratogenicity[2][5][9].

Other names

3-aminopropionitrileβ-aminopropionitrileBAPNbeta-aminopropionitrile fumarate3-aminopropanenitrile