Uricotelism, Biology

Assignment Help:

Uricotelism

In animals which inhabit extremely arid environments, ammonia is converted into  uric acid. Uric acid is least toxic, relatively insoluble and is easily precipitated. Hence, it can be excreted in solid form without loss of substantial amount of water. Pulmonate snails, terrestrial insects, squamate reptiles (lizards and snakes) and birds excrete a major portion of their waste nitrogen in the form of semi-solid or solid uric acid and hence are referred to as uricotelic animals.

1807_Uricotelism.png

Figure: Uric Acid

The synthesis of uric acid from ammonia in these animals occurs by the inosinic acid pathway. This pathway was first elucidated by Buchanan and his co- workers in the 1950s in pigeon liver. Uric acid is a member of the purines. While the details of the pathway are beyond the scope of this unit, in Figure the different fragments from which the uric acid molecule is assembled is shown. The dashed lines which divide the uric acid molecule in the Figure indicate the building blocks from which its biosynthesis takes place.


Related Discussions:- Uricotelism

Explain about the food science and technology, Explain about the Food Scien...

Explain about the Food Science and Technology? Food Science and Technology are so inextricably linked that usually these are treated as one field of study. While Food Science d

Which represents the least potential electromotive force, In a neuron with ...

In a neuron with a resting potential of -65 mV, the distribution of which ion across the neuronal membrane represents the LEAST potential electromotive force (EMF)? A. Potassium

What is oxytocin receptors, Which of the following serves as an actuating s...

Which of the following serves as an actuating signal, or as part of an actuating signal, in a positive feedback system? A. Blood plasma levels of PTH (Parathryroid Hormone).

What is complete transposition of arteries, What is complete transposition ...

What is complete transposition of arteries? Complete transposition of the great arteries (dTGA): The atria and ventricles are connected appropriately i.e., the right atrium dra

Homeostasis., drawandlabelthemajorendocrineglandsinthehumanbody

drawandlabelthemajorendocrineglandsinthehumanbody

Explain properties of colloidal systems - electric charge, Electric Charge ...

Electric Charge - Properties of Colloidal Systems Colloidal particles are electrically charged. Some colloidal particles carry a positive charge (+), others a negative charge (

Are there chloroplasts in cyanobacteria, Are there chloroplasts in cyanobac...

Are there chloroplasts in cyanobacteria? In cyanobacteria there are no chloroplasts and the chlorophyll layers are dispersed in cytosol. Which chemical element is central in

Define the consequences of obesity, Define the Consequences of Obesity? ...

Define the Consequences of Obesity? Obesity has a number of adverse effects and is a risk factor for several problems as highlighted in Figure. It is a risk factor for all caus

Defence mechanisms of the host, Defence mechanisms of the host The hea...

Defence mechanisms of the host The healthy animal is protected from pathogenic organisms present in the environment by virtue of the effective immune mechanism present from bi

What is electrocardiogarm, Q. What is Electrocardiogarm? Poor R-wave pr...

Q. What is Electrocardiogarm? Poor R-wave progression, in precordial leads, or q-waves in anterior leads. Intraventricular conduction defects, esqecially LBBB are common. There

Write Your Message!

Captcha
Free Assignment Quote

Assured A++ Grade

Get guaranteed satisfaction & time on delivery in every assignment order you paid with us! We ensure premium quality solution document along with free turntin report!

All rights reserved! Copyrights ©2019-2020 ExpertsMind IT Educational Pvt Ltd