Question

Is allopurinol a mechanism-based inhibitor of xanthine oxidase?

Short answer

Allopurinol is a mechanism-based inhibitor of xanthine oxidase because its oxidation product irreversibly inhibits the enzyme.

Step-by-step solution

Definition of Concept

Alloxanthine is produced when allopurinol is oxidized by xanthine oxidase.

Step 2:Explain the allopurinol is a mechanism-based inhibitor of xanthine oxidase or not

Alloxanthine binds irreversibly to a reduced form of xanthine oxidase, inactivating the enzyme.

A mechanism-based inhibitor is a molecule that goes through enzyme activity and produces an irreversible inhibitor of the enzyme.

Therefore, the allopurinol is a mechanism-based inhibitor of xanthine oxidase because its oxidation product irreversibly inhibits the enzyme.