Putrescine (1,4-Diaminobutane)

Figure 21.10 depicts synthesis of putrescine, spermidine, and spermine from ornithine. Putrescine is synthesized by decarboxylation of ornithine and it derives its name from the fact it was originally isolated from rotting meat. Putrescine is a precursor to spermidine, then to spermine through the AdoMet-mediated transfer of active propylamino groups

See also: Polyamines, Metabolism of Ornithine and Arginine