Cadaverine

One of two molecules for this week
October 31, 2011
Image of Cadaverine
Image of Cadaverine

Yes, it’s what you think it is: a foul-smelling compound found in putrefying animal tissue. Cadaverine, or 1,5-pentanediamine, is formed by the decarboxylation of the amino acid lysine. It and its companion decomposition product putrescine (1,4-butanediamine) also contribute to odors associated with bad breath, urine, semen, and bacterial vaginosis.

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