(S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid, a type of ketone body produced during fasting or low-carbohydrate diets, plays a crucial role in providing energy to the body when glucose levels are low. This organic compound is also being studied for its potential therapeutic benefits in treating conditions such as epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease, and metabolic disorders. In everyday life, understanding the role of (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid can offer insights into the importance of maintaining a balanced diet and the potential applications of ketone bodies in improving overall health and well-being.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
(S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid, also known as beta-hydroxybutyric acid, has found commercial and industrial applications in various fields. It is commonly used as a component in the production of biodegradable plastics, where its properties contribute to the material’s resilience and durability. Additionally, (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid is utilized in the manufacturing of certain types of dietary supplements and sports nutrition products, where it is believed to provide energy and support weight loss.
In the realm of drug and medication applications, (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid has shown promise in the treatment of various medical conditions. It has been investigated for its potential role in managing epilepsy, particularly in cases where traditional treatments have been ineffective. Furthermore, research suggests that (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid may have neuroprotective properties, making it a candidate for the development of therapies aimed at combatting neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
Overall, the commercial and industrial applications of (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid extend beyond its use in biodegradable plastics and dietary supplements to include potential medicinal benefits. Its versatility and promising properties make it a compound of interest in various sectors, offering a range of possibilities for future research and development.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
(S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid appears as a white crystalline solid with no distinct odor.
The molar mass of (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid is approximately 104.1 g/mol, with a density of around 1.06 g/cm³. This molar mass is higher than common food items like sugar (180.16 g/mol) and salt (58.44 g/mol), while the density is similar to water (1 g/cm³).
The melting point of (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid is around 75-80°C, and the boiling point is approximately 240-250°C. These values are higher than common food items like butter (melting point around 32-35°C) and water (boiling point at 100°C).
(S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid is soluble in water and has a relatively low viscosity. This solubility in water is similar to substances like sugar and salt, while the viscosity is lower than substances like honey or syrup.
🏭 Production & Procurement
(S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid, also known as beta-hydroxybutyric acid, is a compound commonly produced through a biological process known as ketogenesis. This process occurs predominantly in the liver during times of low glucose availability, such as fasting or following a low-carbohydrate diet. (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid is synthesized from acetyl-CoA through a series of enzymatic reactions, ultimately resulting in the formation of this ketone body.
The procurement of (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid can be achieved through various methods, one of which involves its extraction from the blood or urine of individuals in a state of ketosis. Ketosis is a metabolic state characterized by elevated levels of ketone bodies, including (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid, in the bloodstream. This compound can also be obtained commercially from chemical suppliers who produce it synthetically through organic synthesis methods.
Once produced or procured, (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid can be transported and stored in its liquid form, typically as a colorless and odorless solution. It can be packaged in containers suitable for chemical substances and transported to various facilities for research, medical, or industrial purposes. Proper labeling and handling of (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid are essential to ensure its safe transportation and storage.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid must be carefully assessed due to its potential hazards. This compound is known to be harmful if ingested, inhaled, or if it comes into contact with skin. It is also corrosive to metals and may cause irritation to the respiratory system. Therefore, appropriate personal protective equipment such as gloves, goggles, and a lab coat should be worn when handling (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid to minimize the risk of exposure.
Hazard statements for (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid include “Causes severe skin burns and eye damage,” “May be corrosive to metals,” and “Harmful if swallowed or inhaled.” These statements indicate the potentially serious health and safety risks associated with this compound. It is important to handle (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid with caution and follow proper safety protocols to prevent accidents and injuries.
Precautionary statements for (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid include “Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection,” “IF SWALLOWED: Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting,” and “Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapors/spray.” These statements emphasize the importance of using appropriate protective gear, avoiding ingestion, and ensuring good ventilation when working with (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid. Adhering to these precautionary measures will help minimize the risks associated with this hazardous compound.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
Research on (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid has shown promising potential in various fields such as metabolic disorders, neurology, and exercise physiology. Studies have indicated that (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism and energy production in the body, making it a promising target for metabolic disorders such as diabetes and obesity.
Furthermore, (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid has been implicated in neuroprotective and cognitive-enhancing effects. Research in neurology has explored the use of (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid as a potential treatment for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, due to its ability to provide an alternative energy source for the brain.
In the field of exercise physiology, (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid has sparked interest as a potential performance-enhancing supplement. Studies have suggested that supplementing with (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid may improve endurance, reduce fatigue, and enhance recovery in athletes and individuals engaging in strenuous physical activities.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid is (R)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid. This compound has the same molecular formula and structure as (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid, but differs in configuration at the stereocenter. Due to this structural difference, (R)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid may exhibit different biological activities or properties compared to its enantiomer.
Another compound similar to (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid is acetoacetic acid. This compound also contains a ketone and a carboxylic acid functional group, similar to (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid. However, acetoacetic acid lacks the hydroxyl group present in (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid, leading to differences in reactivity and potential biological functions.
A third compound with structural similarity to (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid is beta-hydroxybutyric acid. This compound shares the beta-hydroxy and carboxylic acid functional groups with (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid, but differs in the length of the carbon chain. Beta-hydroxybutyric acid is a ketone body used as an energy source by the body during periods of fasting or low carbohydrate intake, similar to (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid.
