Compound Profile

4-Guanidinobutyric acid

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4-Guanidinobutyric acid, a compound derived from the amino acid arginine, has shown promising potential in research for its ability to improve cognitive function and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. While still in the early stages of study, this compound could potentially have significant implications for individuals seeking ways to enhance their mental well-being. Its relevance to everyday life lies in the possibility of providing a natural and effective alternative for managing stress, anxiety, and mood disorders.

Table of Contents:

💡 Commercial Applications

One of the commercial and industrial applications of 4-Guanidinobutyric acid is in the field of agriculture. It is used as a novel plant growth regulator that aids in improving crop yield and quality. Additionally, it has been found to enhance the resistance of plants to various environmental stressors, such as drought and high salinity.

Another commercial application of 4-Guanidinobutyric acid is in the production of cosmetics and personal care products. It is known for its skin conditioning properties and is commonly used in skincare formulations to improve hydration and smoothness of the skin. It is also used in hair care products to strengthen and protect hair strands from damage.

In terms of drug and medication applications, 4-Guanidinobutyric acid has shown promising results in the treatment of certain neurological disorders. Studies have indicated its potential use in managing conditions such as epilepsy and Alzheimer’s disease, due to its ability to modulate neurotransmitter levels and improve cognitive function. Research is ongoing to explore its therapeutic effects in other neurological conditions.

Furthermore, 4-Guanidinobutyric acid has also been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory properties. It has shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and reduce oxidative stress in animal models, suggesting its possible use in treating inflammatory-related diseases such as arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease. Further clinical studies are needed to validate its efficacy and safety for human use.

⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties

4-Guanidinobutyric acid is a white crystalline solid that is odorless. It appears as tiny particles and does not emit any distinct scent.

With a molar mass of 133.13 g/mol and a density of 1.31 g/cm³, 4-Guanidinobutyric acid is heavier than common household items such as water (molar mass of 18.02 g/mol, density of 1 g/cm³) but lighter than substances like iron (molar mass of 55.85 g/mol, density of 7.87 g/cm³).

The melting point of 4-Guanidinobutyric acid is 224-226°C, while the boiling point ranges from 452-454°C. These values exceed those of common household items like water (melting point of 0°C, boiling point of 100°C) but are lower than substances like table salt (melting point of 801°C, boiling point of 1,413°C).

4-Guanidinobutyric acid is soluble in water and has a low viscosity. This makes it similar to common household items such as sugar and salt, which also dissolve in water easily. However, compared to substances like honey or motor oil, its viscosity is lower.

🏭 Production & Procurement

4-Guanidinobutyric acid is typically produced through synthetic chemical reactions in a laboratory setting. One commonly used method involves the reaction of guanidine hydrochloride with gamma-butyrolactone in the presence of a base catalyst. This results in the formation of 4-Guanidinobutyric acid as a solid crystalline product.

Procuring 4-Guanidinobutyric acid commercially usually involves placing an order with a chemical supplier that specializes in the production of research chemicals. The compound can be shipped in various forms, such as powder or crystals, depending on the requirements of the researcher. Transportation of 4-Guanidinobutyric acid is typically done using standard shipping methods that comply with regulations for the transport of hazardous materials.

Researchers and scientists who require 4-Guanidinobutyric acid for their experiments can also choose to synthesize the compound themselves in a laboratory setting. This allows for greater control over the purity and quality of the final product. However, this method requires access to the necessary chemicals, equipment, and expertise to carry out the synthesis process effectively.

⚠️ Safety Considerations

Safety considerations for 4-Guanidinobutyric acid include proper handling procedures to avoid skin and eye contact. It is important to wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and safety goggles, when working with this compound. In case of exposure, it is advised to seek medical attention immediately and provide as much information as possible about the substance involved.

The pharmacology of 4-Guanidinobutyric acid involves its function as a synthetic analog of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) that acts as a competitive inhibitor of GABA transaminase. This results in increased levels of GABA in the brain, leading to enhanced inhibitory neurotransmission. 4-Guanidinobutyric acid is being studied for its potential therapeutic applications in neurological disorders, particularly epilepsy, where modulation of GABAergic neurotransmission is beneficial.

Hazard statements for 4-Guanidinobutyric acid include “Causes skin irritation” and “Causes serious eye irritation.” This indicates the potential for skin and eye irritation upon contact with the compound. It is important to handle 4-Guanidinobutyric acid with care and take appropriate precautions to prevent skin and eye exposure.

Precautionary statements for 4-Guanidinobutyric acid may include “Wear protective gloves/eye protection/face protection” and “IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of soap and water.” These statements emphasize the importance of wearing protective equipment when handling the compound and provide guidance on what to do in case of skin exposure. It is crucial to follow these precautionary measures to minimize the risks associated with 4-Guanidinobutyric acid.

🔬 Potential Research Directions

Research on 4-Guanidinobutyric acid, a GABA analogue, may focus on its potential as a therapeutic agent for neurological disorders. Studies could investigate its ability to act as a GABA receptor agonist, potentially offering a novel approach to modulating GABAergic neurotransmission.

Additionally, research may explore the neuroprotective effects of 4-Guanidinobutyric acid in conditions such as epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease. Preclinical studies could investigate its impact on excitotoxicity, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation, shedding light on its potential as a neuroprotective agent.

Furthermore, investigations into the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of 4-Guanidinobutyric acid could be conducted to elucidate its absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion in the body. Such research could provide valuable insights into the compound’s efficacy, safety, and potential for clinical use.

Lastly, research on the mechanisms of action of 4-Guanidinobutyric acid may uncover novel pathways involved in the regulation of GABAergic neurotransmission. By elucidating the molecular targets and signaling cascades influenced by the compound, researchers could uncover new therapeutic targets for the treatment of neurological disorders.

One similar compound to 4-Guanidinobutyric acid based upon molecular structure is 4-Aminobutyric acid (GABA). GABA is a naturally occurring neurotransmitter in the central nervous system that plays a crucial role in regulating neuronal excitability. It is structurally very similar to 4-Guanidinobutyric acid, with the main difference being the presence of an amino group instead of a guanidine group.

Another similar compound to 4-Guanidinobutyric acid is 4-Guanidinobenzaldehyde. This compound has a guanidine group attached to a benzaldehyde moiety, making it structurally similar to 4-Guanidinobutyric acid. 4-Guanidinobenzaldehyde has been studied for its potential biological activities, including its ability to inhibit the enzyme aldose reductase.

Additionally, 4-Guanidinobutyric acid shares some structural similarities with creatine. Creatine is an organic compound that is naturally produced in the body and is involved in energy metabolism, particularly in muscle cells. While creatine does not contain a guanidine group, it does contain a nitrogen atom and is a derivative of the amino acids glycine, arginine, and methionine. These similarities in molecular structure may contribute to some overlapping biological activities between 4-Guanidinobutyric acid and creatine.

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