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A urate is a salt of uric acid. Uric acid is a nitrogenous waste product found in urine, particularly in birds and reptiles, and in smaller amounts in humans. It is formed from the breakdown of purines, which are components of DNA and RNA.1234

In humans, uric acid is normally excreted by the kidneys in the urine. However, in individuals with gout, uric acid levels can become excessively high, leading to the deposition of uric acid salts in the joints and causing inflammation and pain. This condition is a type of metabolic disorder.534

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