Overview
Canavanine is an amino acid, similar to arginine, but with two extra nitrogen atoms, found in legumes such as alfalfa and commercially grown plants such as lupins. It has been studied for its potential medical applications and has been shown to inhibit the action of an enzyme involved in the metabolism of certain drugs, making it an interesting candidate for the development of protection against drug overdose. Canavanine also has anti-microbial and anti-cancer properties, and has shown promise as a potential therapeutic for malaria, HIV and other infectious diseases. Further research is needed to elucidate its full potential as a therapeutic agent.