4-(2-Hydroxyethyl)-1-piperazine ethanesulfonic acid, commonly known as HEPES, is a buffering agent frequently used in biological and biochemical research. This compound helps maintain optimal pH levels in cell culture media, making it crucial for various scientific experiments and laboratory procedures. Its significance lies in its ability to ensure stable conditions necessary for cell growth and the study of biological processes. While not directly impacting most individuals in their daily lives, HEPES plays a vital role in advancing scientific knowledge and medical research, ultimately contributing to advancements in healthcare and technology.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
4-(2-Hydroxyethyl)-1-piperazine ethanesulfonic acid, commonly known as HEPES, has various commercial and industrial applications. This compound is utilized as a buffering agent in biological and chemical processes due to its ability to maintain a stable pH level. In addition, it is commonly employed in cell culture media to help regulate the pH of the environment, thereby promoting cell growth and viability.
In the realm of drug and medication applications, HEPES serves as a crucial component in the formulation of pharmaceutical products. Its role as a buffering agent ensures that the pH of drugs remains stable, which is essential for their efficacy and bioavailability. Furthermore, HEPES is utilized in the production of various medical formulations, such as vaccines and protein-based therapeutics, where maintaining pH stability is critical for their performance in the body.
In conclusion, 4-(2-Hydroxyethyl)-1-piperazine ethanesulfonic acid plays a vital role in both commercial and industrial settings, particularly in the fields of biological research, pharmaceutical development, and medical applications. Its unique properties as a buffering agent make it indispensable for maintaining pH stability in various processes, thus contributing significantly to the advancement of science and technology.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
4-(2-Hydroxyethyl)-1-piperazine ethanesulfonic acid is a white crystalline powder that is odorless. It is also known as HEPES and is commonly used as a buffering agent in biological research.
The molar mass of 4-(2-Hydroxyethyl)-1-piperazine ethanesulfonic acid is 260.33 g/mol, with a density of approximately 1.27 g/cm3. In comparison to common food items, the molar mass of HEPES is similar to that of sucrose (342.3 g/mol) and its density is similar to that of olive oil (approx. 0.92 g/cm3).
4-(2-Hydroxyethyl)-1-piperazine ethanesulfonic acid has a melting point of 238-240°C and a boiling point of approximately 470°C. In comparison to common food items, HEPES has a higher melting point than butter (approx. 32°C) and a higher boiling point than water (100°C).
HEPES is highly soluble in water, with a solubility of approximately 500 g/L at 20°C. It has a low viscosity, making it easy to handle in aqueous solutions. In comparison to common food items, HEPES has much higher solubility in water than sugar (2000 g/L at 20°C) and lower viscosity than honey.
🏭 Production & Procurement
4-(2-Hydroxyethyl)-1-piperazine ethanesulfonic acid, commonly known as HEPES, is typically produced through a multistep chemical synthesis process. The first step involves the reaction of 2-chloroethylamine hydrochloride with sodium hydroxide to form 2-hydroxyethylamine. The second step entails the reaction of 2-hydroxyethylamine with piperazine in the presence of ethylene sulfonic acid to yield HEPES.
HEPES can be procured from chemical suppliers in the form of a white crystalline powder. The compound is typically transported in sealed containers to prevent moisture absorption and degradation. Due to its stability, HEPES does not require specialized handling or storage conditions, making it a convenient chemical reagent for laboratory use.
Research laboratories, pharmaceutical companies, and academic institutions commonly procure HEPES for biochemical and cell culture applications. The compound is widely used as a buffering agent in biological research due to its ability to maintain a stable pH in cell culture media. HEPES is an essential component in various biological assays, protein purification processes, and enzyme kinetics studies.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for 4-(2-Hydroxyethyl)-1-piperazine ethanesulfonic acid must be carefully observed due to its potential hazards. This compound may cause skin and eye irritation upon contact, and inhalation or ingestion could lead to respiratory and gastrointestinal irritation. It is important to handle this substance with proper personal protective equipment, including gloves, goggles, and a lab coat, and work in a well-ventilated area to minimize exposure to the compound.
When considering the hazard statements for 4-(2-Hydroxyethyl)-1-piperazine ethanesulfonic acid, it is important to note that this compound is classified as irritating to skin, eyes, and respiratory system. It may also cause irritation to the digestive tract if ingested. It is essential to handle this substance with care and follow proper safety protocols to avoid any potential harm or adverse effects.
Precautionary statements for 4-(2-Hydroxyethyl)-1-piperazine ethanesulfonic acid include avoiding skin and eye contact by wearing appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and goggles. In case of skin contact, wash the affected area with soap and water. If the compound is ingested or inhaled, seek medical attention immediately and provide the healthcare provider with information about the substance. Store this compound in a tightly sealed container in a well-ventilated area away from heat sources and incompatible materials to prevent any accidental exposure or reaction.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for 4-(2-Hydroxyethyl)-1-piperazine ethanesulfonic acid is its use as a buffering agent in biological and biochemical research due to its ability to maintain a stable pH in cell culture media and experimental solutions.
Another avenue of exploration could be investigating the potential pharmacological properties of this compound, particularly its role as a chelating agent or its influence on enzyme activity in various biological systems.
Furthermore, researchers may delve into the synthesis and production processes of 4-(2-Hydroxyethyl)-1-piperazine ethanesulfonic acid to optimize its efficiency and purity for different applications in the fields of chemistry and biology.
Lastly, the compound’s potential as a stabilizing agent for proteins or other biomolecules may warrant further investigation to understand its mechanism of action and its versatility in preserving the integrity of biological samples for research purposes.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to 4-(2-Hydroxyethyl)-1-piperazine ethanesulfonic acid based on its molecular structure is N-(2-Aminoethyl)piperazine-1-propanesulfonic acid. This compound also contains a piperazine ring with a hydroxyethyl group attached to it, but instead of being attached directly to the piperazine ring, the hydroxyethyl group is linked to a propyl group that is connected to the sulfonic acid moiety. This compound is commonly used as a buffering agent in biological and biochemical research due to its ability to maintain pH in a narrow range.
Another compound with structural similarities to 4-(2-Hydroxyethyl)-1-piperazine ethanesulfonic acid is N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)piperazine-1-(2-hydroxyethyl)piperazine-1-propanesulfonic acid. This compound contains two piperazine rings, each with a hydroxyethyl group attached. The sulfonic acid moiety is connected to a propyl group, similar to the first compound mentioned. This compound is used as a buffering agent in various biotechnological applications due to its stability and effectiveness in maintaining pH levels.
A closely related compound to 4-(2-Hydroxyethyl)-1-piperazine ethanesulfonic acid is N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)piperazine-1-(2-Hydroxyethyl)piperazine-1-ethanesulfonic acid. This compound contains two piperazine rings, each with a hydroxyethyl group attached, similar to the previously mentioned compound. However, in this compound, the sulfonic acid moiety is connected to an ethyl group rather than a propyl group. This compound is also utilized as a buffering agent in various biochemical studies and experiments due to its ability to maintain pH levels effectively.
