xanthine

Xanthine is a feebly basic chemical compound, represented by the formula C₅H₄N₄O₂. It is derived from guanine and hypoxanthine and yields uric acid upon oxidation. Xanthine occurs in both animal and plant tissues.1

A deficiency in the enzyme xanthine oxidase, which normally breaks down xanthine into uric acid, leads to a rare inherited disorder called xanthinuria. In this condition, xanthine accumulates in the blood and urine. While often asymptomatic, xanthinuria can sometimes cause xanthine stones in the kidneys.2

Xanthine is also related to other compounds like theobromine, caffeine, and theophylline, which are known as methylxanthines. Theobromine, found in cocoa beans, has stimulant and diuretic properties but less effect on the central nervous system compared to caffeine.34