linamarin

Linamarin is a naturally occurring cyanogenic glycoside found in plants such as cassava (*Manihot esculenta*), flax, and lima beans. It serves as a chemical defense mechanism; upon tissue damage, it is hydrolyzed by the enzyme linamarase (a beta-glucosidase) to release toxic hydrogen cyanide (HCN). In biomedical research, linamarin is being investigated as a pro-drug for targeted cancer therapy, particularly in Gene-Directed Enzyme Prodrug Therapy (GDEPT). In this approach, the linamarase gene is delivered to tumor cells to locally activate linamarin into cyanide, which then inhibits cellular respiration and induces apoptosis. Recent studies have explored its potential against glioblastoma and cervical cancer, including its ability to bind and inhibit the HPV16 E6 oncoprotein.

Other names

phaseolunatin2-(beta-D-glucopyranosyloxy)-2-methylpropanenitrile