Glossary Term
A volatile liquid prepared by fermentation of certain carbohydrates. Alcohol acts as a central nervous system (CNS) depressant, a diuretic, and a disinfectant. Although the exact mechanism of CNS depression is unknown, alcohol may act by inhibiting the opening of calcium channels, mediated by the binding of the inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA) to GABA-A receptors, or through inhibitory actions at N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA)-type glutamate receptors. Alcohol inhibits the production of antidiuretic hormone, thereby producing diuresis that may lead to dehydration. This agent kills organisms by denaturing their proteins.
Extraction Methodology
Tests
A blood alcohol test measures the amount of alcohol (also called ethanol) in a sample of your blood. Alcohol is the ingredient in beer, wine, and distilled spirits (liquor) that makes you feel intoxicated (drunk).
For everyone & professionals
Glossary Term
An isomer of propyl alcohol with antibacterial properties. Although the exact mechanism of isopropanol's disinfecting action is not known, it might kill cells by denaturing cell proteins and DNA, interfering with cellular metabolism, and dissolving cell lipo-protein membranes. Isopropanol is used in soaps and lotions as an antiseptic.
Extraction Methodology
Article
Research record from APMIS, 2026-03-01. PMID 41839701.
Article
Research record from J Anal Toxicol, 2026-04-01. PMID 40838999.
Indicators
A family of enzymes that either create or cleave aldols (aldehyde alcohols).
Tests
Bilirubin is in the insoluble form, unconjugated bilirubin (indirect bilirubin).The non-water soluble, free bilirubin does not react with sulfanilic acid at acidic pH to produce a red colored complex until an accelearator, alcohol, is added to the solution to perform a quantitative measurement of unconjugated bilirubin levels.
For professionals
Glossary Term
Chemicals that are added to drug products to prolong shelf life and maintain sterility. Protection of formulations, especially aqueous solutions, against microbial growth requires use of either antibacterial or antifungal preservatives. Generally, such agents are active against either bacteria or fungi but a few are active against both. The antimicrobials include but not limited to chlorobutanol, benzyl alcohol, sodium benzoate, sorbic acid, and phenol. The antioxidizing agents include butylated hydroxytoluene, hydroxyanisole, propyl gallate, and sulfites. The necessary addition of preservatives for both safety and economy sometimes has been associated with significant adverse effects in certain patient populations.
Pcr Terms
Indicators
A non-essential amino acid in humans (synthesized by the body), Serine is present and functionally important in many proteins. With an alcohol group, serine is needed for the metabolism of fats, fatty acids, and cell membranes; muscle growth; and a healthy immune system. It also plays a major role in pyrimidine, purine, creatine, and porphyrin biosynthetic pathways. Serine is also found at the active site of the serine protease enzyme class that includes trypsin and chymotrypsin. (NCI04)
