Moronic acid

December 27, 2011
Image of Moronic Acid 3D Image of Moronic Acid

Yes, there鈥檚 really a molecule with this name. Moronic acid is a triterpene that can be extracted from the hemiparasitic mistletoe plant (Phoradendron reichenbachianum), among other species. It is cytotoxic, which is perhaps the origin of the mistletoe legend. A moronic acid derivative has shown activity against some HIV strains.

Molecules in the News


  • A Myth Debunked 鈥� Bytesize聽Science

  • Sweat and Cabbage and Beef? Oh, my! 鈥撀�Scientific American
Chemical Abstract Service - a division of ACS

, the most authoritative and comprehensive source for chemical information.

Molecule of the Week needs your suggestions!

If your favorite molecule is not in our聽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.