Definition: Aconine is a chemical compound found in certain mushrooms, particularly in the species Penicillium chrysogenum. The structure of anconine is very similar to that of acetic acid, but it differs slightly because it has a different molecular weight and a different molecular formula. The molecular formula of anconine can be written as [H2NCOOH](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aconine). In the compound, the H atoms are part of the carbon-carbon bonds and N is at the nitrogen atom. The protonated form is more stable than the unprotoned form, so it has a slightly higher boiling point. The anion (negative charge) forms with water to give an aqueous solution that is called an acetic acid solution. Anconine is also used as a preservative for some foods and is found in mushrooms, yeast, and other fungi. It can be added to the food chain when they are grown and eaten by animals or people. The name "aconine" comes from its chemical structure, which resembles that of acetic acid but has a slightly different molecular weight, making it distinct from traditional acetic acid compounds such as citric acid.

aconine