3-Ureidopropionic acid is a compound that has shown promise in various pharmaceutical and medical applications. Specifically, its ability to inhibit the activity of certain enzymes has led to its use in potential treatments for conditions such as cancer and inflammation. Beyond its medicinal applications, 3-Ureidopropionic acid also has potential uses in the production of agrochemicals and industrial chemicals, further 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-Ureidopropionic acid, also known as beta-Ureidopropionic acid, has various commercial and industrial applications. It is used in the production of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and personal care products. Additionally, it is utilized as a building block in the synthesis of complex organic compounds.
In the realm of drug and medication applications, 3-Ureidopropionic acid has potential therapeutic benefits. It has been studied for its potential use in the treatment of neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease. Its ability to modulate neurotransmitter levels in the brain makes it a promising candidate for further research in the field of neuropharmacology.
Furthermore, 3-Ureidopropionic acid is being investigated for its potential role as a chelating agent in metal detoxification therapies. Its ability to bind to heavy metals such as lead, mercury, and cadmium suggests a possible application in environmental remediation and the treatment of heavy metal poisoning. Research in this area is ongoing to explore the full range of its industrial and therapeutic potential.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
3-Ureidopropionic acid is a white crystalline solid with no distinct odor. It is commonly found in powder form and has a slightly acidic taste.
The molar mass of 3-Ureidopropionic acid is approximately 146.11 g/mol, with a density of about 1.54 g/cm3. This places it in the same range as common household items such as sugar (molar mass 342.30 g/mol, density 1.587 g/cm3) and table salt (molar mass 58.44 g/mol, density 2.17 g/cm3).
The melting point of 3-Ureidopropionic acid is around 180-185°C, while the boiling point is approximately 350-355°C. These temperature ranges are similar to those of household items such as butter (melting point around 32-35°C, boiling point around 100°C) and water (melting point 0°C, boiling point 100°C).
3-Ureidopropionic acid is soluble in water, forming a clear solution. It has a low viscosity, making it easy to mix and dissolve. This solubility and viscosity compare favorably to common household items such as sugar (soluble in water, low viscosity) and honey (soluble in water, high viscosity).
🏭 Production & Procurement
3-Ureidopropionic acid is typically produced through a multi-step chemical synthesis process. The starting material, malonic acid, is treated with urea and a base catalyst to form the intermediate product, 3-acetamidomethylene malonic acid. This intermediate is then further hydrolyzed to yield the final product, 3-Ureidopropionic acid.
The procurement of 3-Ureidopropionic acid can be accomplished through specialized chemical suppliers or pharmaceutical companies that produce and distribute the compound. It is typically available in various purities and quantities, depending on the specific requirements of the end user. Upon procurement, the compound can be transported in sealed containers to prevent contamination or degradation during transit.
Once procured, 3-Ureidopropionic acid can be further processed or used directly in various applications, such as in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals or as a research chemical. Proper handling and storage procedures should be followed to maintain the stability and integrity of the compound. Additionally, appropriate safety precautions should be taken when working with 3-Ureidopropionic acid to minimize potential health risks associated with its use.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for 3-Ureidopropionic acid include proper storage, handling, and disposal of the substance. It is important to wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and goggles, when working with 3-Ureidopropionic acid to prevent skin contact and eye exposure. In case of accidental exposure, immediate medical attention should be sought, and the Material Safety Data Sheet should be consulted for proper first aid measures.
In terms of pharmacology, 3-Ureidopropionic acid is a known inhibitor of glutamate carboxypeptidase II (GCPII), an enzyme that plays a role in the regulation of glutamatergic neurotransmission. By inhibiting GCPII, 3-Ureidopropionic acid may modulate glutamate levels in the brain, potentially impacting neuronal function. Studies have shown that 3-Ureidopropionic acid may have neuroprotective effects in certain neurodegenerative conditions.
Hazard statements for 3-Ureidopropionic acid include “Causes skin irritation” and “Causes serious eye irritation.” It is important to avoid skin and eye contact with the substance to prevent irritation. In case of skin or eye contact, affected areas should be rinsed thoroughly with water and medical attention should be sought if irritation persists.
Precautionary statements for 3-Ureidopropionic acid include “Wear protective gloves/eye protection/face protection” and “IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of soap and water.” It is important to follow proper handling procedures when working with 3-Ureidopropionic acid to minimize the risk of exposure. Additionally, proper ventilation should be ensured when using the substance to prevent inhalation of fumes.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for 3-Ureidopropionic acid is its role in neurobiology, as it has been shown to possess neuroprotective properties that could be explored further in the context of neurodegenerative diseases.
Another area of research could involve investigating the pharmacological potential of 3-Ureidopropionic acid as a potential therapeutic agent for conditions such as inflammatory disorders or cancer, due to its reported anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative effects.
Furthermore, exploring the metabolic pathways and potential side effects of 3-Ureidopropionic acid could provide valuable insights into its overall safety and efficacy as a potential drug candidate, shedding light on its potential for clinical development.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to 3-Ureidopropionic acid based on its molecular structure is N-acetylglutamic acid. This compound contains an acetyl group attached to the nitrogen atom of the glutamic acid molecule, similar to how the ureido group is attached to the carbon atom in 3-Ureidopropionic acid. N-acetylglutamic acid is involved in the urea cycle as a precursor for the synthesis of arginine, playing a key role in nitrogen metabolism.
Another similar compound is Citrulline, an amino acid with a urea group attached to the carbon atom. Citrulline participates in the urea cycle, similar to 3-Ureidopropionic acid. However, the structure of Citrulline differs in that it contains an additional methylene group between the urea and amino acid moieties. Citrulline is involved in the synthesis of arginine, ornithine, and nitric oxide, serving various physiological functions in the body.
A third compound with a similar structural motif is N-Carbamoylaspartate, an intermediate in the urea cycle. N-Carbamoylaspartate contains a carbamoyl group attached to the nitrogen atom of the aspartate molecule, resembling the ureido group in 3-Ureidopropionic acid. This compound plays a crucial role in the conversion of ammonia to urea in the liver, highlighting its importance in nitrogen metabolism and waste excretion in organisms.
