



The tetraamine spermine is biosynthesized from the triamine spermidine, which is produced from the diamine putrescine. Anton van Leeuwenhoek, the microscopy pioneer, described spermine crystals in human semen in 1678, and spermidine was also first detected in sperm. Despite their names, both polyamines are ubiquitous in organisms and have several biological functions.

Learn more about this molecule from CAS, the most authoritative and comprehensive source for chemical information.
Molecule of the Week needs your suggestions!
If your favorite molecule is not in our archive, please send us a message. The molecule can be notable for its current or historical importance or for any quirky reason. Thank you!
Stay Ahead of the Chemistry Curve
Learn how ACS can help you stay ahead in the world of chemistry.