Xanthopterin

Xanthopterin is a yellow, crystalline solid that occurs mainly in the wings of butterflies and in the urine of mammals. Small microorganisms convert it into folic acid. It is the end product of a non-conjugated pteridine compound and inhibits the growth of lymphocytes produced by concanavalin. High levels of the chemical were found in patients with liver disease and hemolysis, the latter increasing levels by 35%.