Triethylenetetramine (TETA) is an organic compound with a chemical formula of [CH₂NHCH₂CH₂NH₂]₂. It is a colorless to light-yellow oily liquid that is soluble in polar solvents. TETA is also known as trientine when used for medical purposes. Here are some uses of TETA:
Wilson's diseaseTETA is used to treat Wilson's disease in adults who are tolerant to penicillamine and have been de-coppered. TETA is a copper chelating agent that is effective in reversing symptoms and maintaining patients who have been successfully decoppered with penicillamine.
CancerTETA has been shown to have anti-angiogenesis and telomerase inhibiting properties, and may be used to treat cancer.
Fuel oil additivesTETA is used in the manufacturing of fuel oil additives, lubricating oil additives, and epoxy curing agents.
Asphalt additivesTETA is used in the production of asphalt additives.
TETA is severely irritating to the skin and eyes and produces skin sensitization. It is of low to moderate acute toxicity via the oral and dermal routes of exposure.