3-Guanidinopropionic acid is a compound that has shown promising potential in the field of sports nutrition and muscle health. It has been found to improve exercise performance and muscle recovery, making it a useful supplement for athletes and individuals seeking to enhance their physical performance. Additionally, research suggests that 3-Guanidinopropionic acid may have neuroprotective effects, potentially benefiting cognitive function and overall brain health. As such, this compound may have significant implications for individuals looking to optimize their physical and mental well-being in their everyday lives.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
3-Guanidinopropionic acid, commonly referred to as beta-GPA, is a synthetic compound with various commercial and industrial applications. In the field of cosmetics, beta-GPA is used as a skin-conditioning agent due to its hydrating properties. Furthermore, this compound has found utility in the production of certain pharmaceutical drugs and agrochemicals.
In the realm of drug and medication applications, 3-Guanidinopropionic acid has garnered attention for its potential therapeutic effects on muscle function and metabolism. Research suggests that beta-GPA may aid in the treatment of metabolic disorders and muscle wasting diseases. Additionally, studies have shown promising results in the use of this compound for enhancing athletic performance through the modulation of muscle energy metabolism.
The pharmaceutical industry has also explored the use of 3-Guanidinopropionic acid as a chemical intermediate in the synthesis of various compounds. Beta-GPA serves as a crucial building block for the production of certain pharmaceutical drugs, especially those aimed at improving cardiovascular health and metabolic function. Overall, the diverse applications of beta-GPA highlight its significance in various commercial, industrial, and medicinal contexts.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
3-Guanidinopropionic acid is a white crystalline powder that is odorless. It has a mild taste and easily dissolves in water, making it a versatile compound in various applications.
The molar mass of 3-Guanidinopropionic acid is approximately 132.12 g/mol, and its density is around 1.356 g/cm³. In comparison to common food items, such as sugar and salt, 3-Guanidinopropionic acid has a higher molar mass but lower density.
The melting point of 3-Guanidinopropionic acid is around 215°C, while the boiling point is approximately 470°C. These values are much higher than those of common food items like water and cooking oils.
🏭 Production & Procurement
Production of 3-Guanidinopropionic acid typically involves a multi-step organic synthesis process. One common method includes the reaction of guanidine with an oxazolidine intermediate, followed by hydrolysis to yield 3-Guanidinopropionic acid. The reaction conditions are carefully controlled to ensure high purity and yield of the final product.
To procure 3-Guanidinopropionic acid, one may source it from chemical suppliers or manufacturers. The compound is typically available in various quantities, ranging from grams to kilograms. Transportation of 3-Guanidinopropionic acid is done in accordance with regulations for handling hazardous chemicals, ensuring safe delivery to the end user.
Alternatively, 3-Guanidinopropionic acid can be synthesized in a laboratory setting using the aforementioned organic synthesis method. Researchers may choose to produce the compound in-house for specific research purposes or to tailor the synthesis process to their requirements. Proper safety measures and protocols must be adhered to during the synthesis and handling of 3-Guanidinopropionic acid to prevent accidents or exposure.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety Considerations for 3-Guanidinopropionic Acid:
The safety considerations for 3-Guanidinopropionic acid must be taken seriously due to its potential hazards. This compound is corrosive to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract, causing irritation and possible burns upon contact. It is also harmful if swallowed, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin, leading to further health complications. Proper protective equipment, such as gloves, goggles, and a lab coat, should be worn when handling 3-Guanidinopropionic acid to minimize the risk of exposure and injury. Additionally, this compound should only be used in well-ventilated areas to prevent inhalation of potentially harmful vapors.
Hazard Statements for 3-Guanidinopropionic Acid:
The hazard statements for 3-Guanidinopropionic acid include the following: it is corrosive to skin, eyes, and respiratory tract, causing irritation and burns upon contact. This compound is harmful if swallowed, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin, leading to potential health risks. It may also cause damage to organs upon prolonged or repeated exposure. Proper precautions should be taken when handling 3-Guanidinopropionic acid to avoid these hazards and protect against potential health risks.
Precautionary Statements for 3-Guanidinopropionic Acid:
When working with 3-Guanidinopropionic acid, precautionary statements must be followed to ensure safety. Avoid contact with skin, eyes, and clothing to prevent irritation, burns, or other harmful effects. Use appropriate protective equipment, such as gloves, goggles, and a lab coat, when handling this compound to minimize the risk of exposure and injury. Store 3-Guanidinopropionic acid in a cool, dry place away from incompatible materials to prevent accidents or spills. Additionally, only use this compound in well-ventilated areas to avoid inhalation of potentially harmful vapors and reduce health risks.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for 3-Guanidinopropionic acid is its application as a potential therapeutic agent for neurological disorders. Studies have shown that this compound may have neuroprotective effects by enhancing cellular energy metabolism and reducing oxidative stress in neurons.
Another avenue of research could be investigating the role of 3-Guanidinopropionic acid in muscle metabolism and performance enhancement. Some studies suggest that this compound may improve muscle function by increasing the bioavailability of creatine, a key molecule in energy production during physical activity.
Furthermore, research on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of 3-Guanidinopropionic acid could provide valuable insights for its clinical use. Understanding how this compound is absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and excreted in the body can help optimize dosing regimens and maximize its therapeutic potential in various disease states.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to 3-Guanidinopropionic acid is Arginine, which also contains a guanidine group attached to a carbon chain. Arginine is an amino acid commonly found in proteins and is essential for the biosynthesis of proteins in living organisms.
Another compound with a similar molecular structure to 3-Guanidinopropionic acid is Creatine. Creatine is a nitrogenous organic acid that occurs naturally in vertebrates and helps supply energy to all cells in the body, primarily muscle. It contains a guanidine group along with a carboxylic acid group and is involved in the storage and transmission of energy within cells.
One more compound akin to 3-Guanidinopropionic acid is Guanidine itself. Guanidine is an organic compound that contains a guanidine functional group attached to a carbon atom. It is used in various industrial processes such as in the production of plastics, explosives, and medicines. Guanidine has similar properties to 3-Guanidinopropionic acid due to the presence of the guanidine group in its structure.
