N-Phenylthiourea

N-Phenylthiourea is a synthetic organic compound belonging to the class of thioureas in which one hydrogen atom is replaced by a phenyl group. It acts as a competitive **inhibitor** of tyrosinase (also known as phenoloxidase), an enzyme involved in melanin biosynthesis and pigment formation. The inhibition constant (Ki) for tyrosinase is approximately 0.21 μM, indicating high potency[5][6]. N-Phenylthiourea has been used primarily as a laboratory reagent and research tool rather than as an approved pharmaceutical drug. Its applications include use as a precursor for synthesizing antibacterial and antifungal compounds, and it serves as a genetic marker for taste sensitivity because only some individuals can detect its bitter flavor[1][5]. Chronic exposure may have antithyroid activity and other toxic effects[3].

Other names

phenylthiocarbamide