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Thalidomide

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A synthetic derivative of glutamic acid (alpha-phthalimido-glutarimide) with teratogenic, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic properties. Thalidomide acts primarily by inhibiting both the production of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) in stimulated peripheral monocytes and the activities of interleukins and interferons. This agent also inhibits polymorphonuclear chemotaxis and monocyte phagocytosis. In addition, thalidomide inhibits pro-angiogenic factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), thereby inhibiting angiogenesis.
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Synonym:alpha-phthalimidoglutarimide
N-phthaloylglutamimide
N-phthalylglutamic acid imide
US brand name:Thalomid
Foreign brand name:Contergan
Distaval
Kevadon
Neurosedyn
Pantosediv
Sedoval K-17
Sedoval K17
Softenon
Talimol
Chemical structure:2-(2,6-dioxo-3-piperidinyl)-1H-isoindole-1,3(2H)-dione
2,6-dioxo-3-phthalimidopiperidine
3-phthalimidoglutarimide
N-(2,6-dioxo-3-piperidyl)phthalimide
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