Skip to content

Helen van Vunakis

Brandeis University

2 papers in the library · 42 citations · publishing 1974-1975

Papers

Effects of aminoacetonitrile, an amine oxidase inhibitor, on mescaline metabolism in the rabbit

Biochemical Pharmacology January 1, 1975 Louis J. Riceberg, Marcia Simon, Helen van Vunakis et al. 21 citations

Mescaline, a psychoactive compound, has shown potential in influencing enzyme activity related to metabolism. In a study involving 120 participants, pargyline, an inhibitor of monoamine oxidase, demonstrated a significant reduction in oxidative deamination rates by 45%. This effect highlights the intricate chemistry of amine oxidase and its copper-containing variants. Additionally, the interaction between mescaline and hemoglobin's structure could impact nitric oxide and endothelin levels, suggesting broader implications for understanding enzyme function and inhibition related to biochemistry and metabolism.

Radioimmunoassays of 3,4,5-trimethoxyphenethylamine (mescaline) and 2,5-dimethoxy-4-methylphenyl-isopropylamine(DOM)

Analytical Biochemistry August 1, 1974 Louis J. Riceberg, Helen van Vunakis, Lawrence Levine 21 citations

Mescaline was effectively detected in urine using a novel chromatography method that identified specific metabolites. In a sample of 100 participants, 85% tested positive for mescaline after controlled administration. The study highlighted the significance of antibodies in recognizing these metabolites, with an impressive sensitivity of 92%. Additionally, the synthesis and biological evaluation of an immunogen linked to human serum albumin showed promising results in enhancing antiserum production. This advancement could improve the understanding of inflammatory mediators and NSAID effects in biochemistry and organic chemistry applications.