Definitions

1. noun

A type of organic compound found in biological systems, especially in the metabolism of amino acids and in the structure of flavins and pterins.

“The study of pterins in the human body led to a deeper understanding of the breakdown and synthesis of amino acids.”

2. noun

A colourless, crystalline compound, C9H6N4, used in the manufacture of fluorescent dyes and in analytical chemistry.

“The chemist isolated the pterin from the dye and analyzed its properties.”