An intermediate in yeast fermentation of carbohydrate and in alcohol metabolism. It is a central agent for the toxic effects of ethanol. SYN: acetic aldehyde, ethanal.
- activated a. the activated form of a. that is formed during the decarboxylation of active pyruvate. Formed in alcohol fermentation and in carbohydrate metabolism. SYN: α-hydroxyethylthiamin pyrophosphate.
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ac·et·al·de·hyde .as-ə-'tal-də-.hīd n a colorless volatile water-soluble liquid aldehyde C2H4O used chiefly in organic synthesis that can cause irritation to mucous membranes
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ac·et·al·de·hyde (as″ət-alґdə-hīd″) a colorless flammable liquid with a pungent odor, used in the manufacture of acetic acid, perfumes, and flavors. It is also an intermediate in the metabolism of alcohol. If ingested, it may cause irritation of mucous membranes, lacrimation, photophobia, conjunctivitis, corneal injury, rhinitis, anosmia, bronchitis, pneumonia, pleurisy, headache, and unconsciousness. Called also acetic aldehyde, ethanal, and ethylaldehyde.Medical dictionary. 2011.