2-Oxophytanic acid, a compound derived from plant sources, plays a significant role in everyday life due to its potential applications in the fields of agriculture, food industry, and pharmaceuticals. This compound has been studied for its antioxidant properties, which can benefit human health by neutralizing harmful free radicals in the body. Furthermore, 2-Oxophytanic acid has shown promise in enhancing plant growth and crop yield, making it valuable in agricultural practices. Its presence in various skincare and cosmetic products underscores its relevance in everyday life, as consumers seek natural and effective ingredients for personal care. In conclusion, the versatility and potential benefits of 2-Oxophytanic acid make it a compound of interest with wide-ranging implications for society.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
2-Oxophytanic acid, also known as 2-OPA, has various commercial and industrial applications. It is primarily used as a key ingredient in the manufacturing of UV stabilizers for plastics and coatings. Additionally, 2-OPA is utilized in the production of specialty chemicals and pharmaceutical intermediates due to its unique chemical properties.
In terms of drug and medication applications, 2-Oxophytanic acid has shown potential as a therapeutic agent in the treatment of various diseases. Research suggests that 2-OPA may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it a promising candidate for developing new drugs for conditions such as arthritis and cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, studies have shown that 2-OPA exhibits anti-cancer effects, leading to further exploration of its potential in oncology research.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
2-Oxophytanic acid is a white crystalline solid with a faint odor. It is a derivative of phytanic acid and is often used in research studies for its biological properties.
The molar mass of 2-Oxophytanic acid is 318.44 g/mol, and its density is approximately 1.08 g/cm^3. Compared to common food items such as sugar (180.16 g/mol) and salt (58.44 g/mol), 2-Oxophytanic acid has a higher molar mass and density.
The melting point of 2-Oxophytanic acid is around 160-163°C, and its boiling point is approximately 383°C. When compared to common food items like butter (melting point around 32°C) and water (boiling point at 100°C), 2-Oxophytanic acid has significantly higher melting and boiling points.
2-Oxophytanic acid is sparingly soluble in water and has a low viscosity. This is in contrast to common food items like sugar and salt, which are highly soluble in water and have higher viscosities.
🏭 Production & Procurement
2-Oxophytanic acid, a compound derived from phytanic acid, is primarily produced through a series of chemical reactions. This process typically involves the oxidation of phytanic acid using reagents such as potassium permanganate or other oxidizing agents. The resulting product, 2-Oxophytanic acid, can then be isolated and purified for further use in various industrial applications.
The procurement of 2-Oxophytanic acid can be achieved through specialized chemical suppliers or manufacturers. These companies often produce the compound on a large scale and distribute it to customers in the form of a pure, crystalline powder or solution. In some cases, 2-Oxophytanic acid may also be available for purchase from online chemical suppliers, where it can be shipped to customers in sealed containers for safe handling and storage.
Transporting 2-Oxophytanic acid requires adherence to strict safety guidelines due to its potentially hazardous nature. The compound is typically classified as a hazardous chemical and must be packaged and labeled according to regulatory requirements for transportation. Specialized carriers equipped with appropriate storage and handling facilities are often used to transport 2-Oxophytanic acid safely to its destination, ensuring that it reaches customers in a secure and timely manner.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for 2-Oxophytanic acid must be carefully considered due to its potential hazards. This chemical compound is classified as harmful if swallowed and may cause skin irritation upon contact. In addition, inhalation of its vapors may result in respiratory irritation. Therefore, proper handling procedures, such as wearing appropriate personal protective equipment including gloves and goggles, should be followed when working with 2-Oxophytanic acid to minimize the risk of exposure.
The hazard statements for 2-Oxophytanic acid include “Harmful if swallowed” and “Causes skin irritation.” These statements indicate that ingestion of the compound can lead to adverse effects on health and that direct contact with the skin may result in irritation. It is important to be aware of these hazards and take necessary precautions to prevent exposure when working with 2-Oxophytanic acid to ensure safety.
Precautionary statements for 2-Oxophytanic acid include “Wear protective gloves/eye protection/face protection” and “Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapors/spray.” These statements emphasize the importance of wearing appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves, goggles, and face protection, to prevent skin and eye contact with the compound. Additionally, it is advised to avoid inhaling any dust, fumes, gases, mists, vapors, or sprays generated during the handling of 2-Oxophytanic acid to minimize the risk of respiratory irritation. Following these precautionary measures is essential to ensure safe handling of this chemical compound.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
Research on 2-Oxophytanic acid has the potential to explore its biological activities and potential therapeutic applications. Studies may investigate its role as an intermediate in the metabolism of phytanic acid and its interaction with cellular processes.
Furthermore, research could focus on the chemical synthesis and derivatization of 2-Oxophytanic acid to create new compounds with enhanced properties or activities. This includes exploring the feasibility of using 2-Oxophytanic acid as a starting point for the development of novel pharmaceuticals or biologically active molecules.
Additionally, investigations into the biochemical pathways involving 2-Oxophytanic acid could provide insights into metabolic diseases such as Refsum disease. Understanding how this compound is metabolized and excreted from the body may also lead to potential diagnostic or therapeutic strategies for these disorders.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to 2-Oxophytanic acid based upon molecular structure is 2-Oxolevulinate. This compound is a key intermediate in heme biosynthesis and is involved in the transformation of glycine and succinyl-CoA to form heme. With a similar ketone functional group, 2-Oxolevulinate exhibits structural similarities to 2-Oxophytanic acid.
Another compound with a molecular structure similar to 2-Oxophytanic acid is 2-Oxobutanoic acid, also known as α-ketobutyric acid. This compound is an important metabolite in the catabolism of branched-chain amino acids like valine, leucine, and isoleucine. Like 2-Oxophytanic acid, 2-Oxobutanoic acid features a ketone group that facilitates its role in various metabolic pathways.
A third compound sharing a structural resemblance to 2-Oxophytanic acid is 2-Oxoisovaleric acid, also known as α-ketoisovaleric acid. This compound is an intermediate in the degradation of the branched-chain amino acid leucine. With a keto group on the second carbon atom of its carbon chain, 2-Oxoisovaleric acid bears similarity to 2-Oxophytanic acid in terms of functional group placement and chemical properties.