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Q: What is
an "ester"?
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| Dr.
Joachim Liehr |
A: An
ester is a chemical formed by bonding an
alcohol (any alcohol) to an organic acid. Esters are widely
distributed in nature. Many fragrances, waxes, fragrant components
of wine, etc., contain esters. Esters are synthesized and
used in a variety of ways. Many drugs are esters,
such as novocaine, lidocaine, aspirin, etc. Here at Stehlin,
we bond camptothecin, which
contains an alcoholic group, to an organic acid to create
new and exciting cancerfighting
esters.
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