Definition

A chemical compound derived from the Madagascar periwinkle plant, used in medicine to treat certain types of cancer.

Example

The doctor prescribed vincristine as part of the chemotherapy treatment for the patient.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of vincristine?

Yeah, it’s that medication used for treating cancer, right?

Exactly! I read that it’s derived from the Madagascar periwinkle.

That’s so interesting! I didn’t know it had such a natural source.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Vincristine is derived from 'vinca' (from Latin, meaning to bind or to entwine) and '-istine' (a suffix used in the names of certain alkaloids). The word refers to a compound derived from the periwinkle plant, which is known for its binding properties in medicinal uses.

Memory Tip

Think of 'vinca' meaning to bind, as vincristine is a compound that binds to cancer cells to inhibit their growth.

Visually Confused Words