3-Hydroxypropanal, also known as glyceric aldehyde, is a compound that plays a crucial role in various biological processes within the human body. It is an intermediate in the metabolism of sugars, particularly in the glycolytic pathway, where it is converted into pyruvate, which is a key molecule in cellular respiration. Additionally, 3-Hydroxypropanal is involved in the biosynthesis of certain amino acids and lipids, contributing to the overall maintenance of human health. Its importance lies in its fundamental role in energy production and building blocks for essential biomolecules, highlighting its relevance to everyday life.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
3-Hydroxypropanal, also known as glyceric aldehyde, has limited commercial and industrial applications due to its high reactivity and instability. However, it is commonly used as a building block in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds and specialty chemicals.
In the pharmaceutical industry, 3-Hydroxypropanal is utilized in the production of various medications and drugs. It serves as a precursor in the synthesis of certain anti-cancer compounds, antibiotics, and anti-inflammatory drugs. Its versatile chemical structure allows for modification to create diverse pharmaceutical products.
Due to its ability to form stable hemiacetals and acetals, 3-Hydroxypropanal is a valuable intermediate in the synthesis of complex molecules. Its reactivity provides opportunities for the synthesis of polymers, resins, and other specialty chemicals. Despite its limited direct commercial applications, its role as a key building block in chemical synthesis is crucial for various industrial processes.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
3-Hydroxypropanal, also known as glyceric aldehyde, is a colorless liquid with a pungent odor. It is most commonly found in nature as an intermediate in the metabolism of certain sugars.
With a molar mass of 90.08 g/mol and a density of 1.199 g/cm3, 3-Hydroxypropanal is relatively lightweight and has a moderate density. Compared to common food items, such as sugar (342.3 g/mol) and olive oil (0.92 g/cm3), 3-Hydroxypropanal falls within a similar range in terms of molar mass and density.
3-Hydroxypropanal has a melting point of -26 °C and a boiling point of 103 °C. These values are within the range of common food items, such as butter (melting point: 32-35 °C) and water (boiling point: 100 °C), indicating similar physical properties in terms of melting and boiling points.
3-Hydroxypropanal is highly soluble in water and exhibits low viscosity. Compared to common food items like sugar and salt, which are also highly soluble in water but may have higher viscosity, 3-Hydroxypropanal shows similar solubility in water but lower viscosity.
🏭 Production & Procurement
3-Hydroxypropanal, also known as glycerol aldehyde, is typically produced through the oxidation of glycerol. This process involves the use of specific catalysts and reaction conditions to ensure the selective formation of 3-Hydroxypropanal.
To procure 3-Hydroxypropanal, one can either produce it in a laboratory setting or obtain it from chemical suppliers. The compound is often available for purchase in liquid form, and it can be transported in sealed containers to prevent evaporation or contamination.
When procuring 3-Hydroxypropanal for research or industrial purposes, it is important to ensure proper handling and storage to prevent degradation or cross-contamination. This compound is sensitive to air and moisture, so it should be stored in airtight containers away from light and heat sources.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for 3-Hydroxypropanal include its potential flammability as a liquid. Therefore, it should be stored away from sources of ignition. Additionally, it may cause skin and eye irritation upon contact, so personal protective equipment such as gloves and goggles should be worn when handling this compound. In case of accidental ingestion or inhalation, medical attention should be sought immediately.
Hazard statements for 3-Hydroxypropanal include its ability to cause skin and eye irritation. It may also be harmful if swallowed or if inhaled, leading to respiratory tract irritation. Furthermore, it has the potential to cause damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure. Overall, caution should be exercised when working with this compound to avoid these potential hazards.
Precautionary statements for 3-Hydroxypropanal include avoiding contact with skin, eyes, and clothing. If contact does occur, thorough washing with water should be done. Additionally, it is important to work in a well-ventilated area or use proper respiratory protection to prevent inhalation of this compound. Proper handling and storage procedures should be followed to minimize the risks associated with 3-Hydroxypropanal exposure.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for 3-Hydroxypropanal lies in its application as a building block for the synthesis of various chemicals, such as pharmaceuticals and polymers. Researchers may explore the reactivity of 3-Hydroxypropanal and investigate novel synthetic routes for its derivatization.
Another area of interest may involve studying the biological activity of 3-Hydroxypropanal and its potential use in medicinal chemistry. This could include examining its pharmacological effects, toxicity, and potential as a therapeutic agent for various diseases.
Furthermore, research efforts could be directed towards understanding the environmental fate and impact of 3-Hydroxypropanal. This may involve investigating its degradation pathways, persistence in the environment, and potential risks to human health and ecosystems. Such studies would contribute valuable information to the field of environmental chemistry and toxicology.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to 3-Hydroxypropanal is 2-Hydroxypropanal, also known as glyceric aldehyde. This compound has a hydroxyl group attached to the second carbon in the propane backbone, similar to 3-Hydroxypropanal. Like 3-Hydroxypropanal, 2-Hydroxypropanal is an important intermediate in the metabolism of carbohydrates.
Another compound with a similar structure to 3-Hydroxypropanal is 1,3-Dihydroxyacetone, also known as dihydroxyacetone. This compound has two hydroxyl groups attached to the first and third carbon atoms in a simple acetone backbone. Both 1,3-Dihydroxyacetone and 3-Hydroxypropanal are commonly used in the cosmetics industry for their ability to react with amino acids in the skin to produce a temporary tan.
One more compound akin to 3-Hydroxypropanal is 1,3-Propanediol, also known as trimethylene glycol. This compound has two hydroxyl groups attached to the first and third carbon atoms in a propane backbone, similar to 3-Hydroxypropanal. 1,3-Propanediol is widely used in the production of polymers, as well as in the food and pharmaceutical industries due to its low toxicity and ability to act as a solvent.
