2-Hydroxybenzenepropanoic acid, commonly known as ibuprofen, plays a significant role in everyday life as a widely-used over-the-counter medication for pain relief and anti-inflammatory purposes. It is commonly utilized to alleviate headaches, muscle aches, toothaches, menstrual cramps, and various other minor ailments. Its accessibility and effectiveness have made it a staple in many households and pharmacies, contributing to its relevance in everyday life.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
2-Hydroxybenzenepropanoic acid, also known as 2-Hydroxyphenylpropionic acid or Mandelic Acid, has various commercial and industrial applications. It is commonly used in the production of perfumes, flavors, and cosmetics due to its aromatic properties and ability to enhance fragrance compositions. Additionally, Mandelic Acid is utilized in the manufacturing of polymers, resins, and adhesives for its role as a key chemical intermediate.
In the realm of drug and medication applications, 2-Hydroxybenzenepropanoic acid serves as an important component in pharmaceutical formulations. Mandelic Acid is recognized for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it valuable in the development of skincare products for treating acne and other skin conditions. Furthermore, this compound is utilized in the synthesis of drugs targeting urinary tract infections and as a precursor in the manufacturing of certain anti-inflammatory medications.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
2-Hydroxybenzenepropanoic acid, also known as mandelic acid, appears as colorless crystals with a faint odor. The compound is often used in cosmetic formulations and pharmaceutical products due to its mild fragrance and non-toxic nature.
With a molar mass of 152.15 g/mol and a density of 1.34 g/cm³, 2-Hydroxybenzenepropanoic acid is relatively light compared to common household items such as table salt (NaCl) and sugar (sucrose), which have higher molar masses and densities.
2-Hydroxybenzenepropanoic acid has a melting point of 118-120°C and a boiling point of 260-262°C. These values are higher than those of water and ethanol, which makes the compound more stable at high temperatures compared to common household liquids.
The compound is soluble in water and has a low viscosity, making it easily mixable in various aqueous solutions. This contrasts with substances like oil and honey, which have low water solubility and higher viscosities in comparison to 2-Hydroxybenzenepropanoic acid.
🏭 Production & Procurement
2-Hydroxybenzenepropanoic acid, also known as mandelic acid, is produced through a reaction between benzaldehyde and hydrocyanic acid. The benzaldehyde serves as the primary substrate, undergoing a cyanohydrin formation to yield mandelonitrile. This compound is then hydrolyzed to yield 2-Hydroxybenzenepropanoic acid in its final form.
To procure 2-Hydroxybenzenepropanoic acid, one may turn to chemical suppliers specializing in organic acids. The compound is typically supplied as a white crystalline powder, packaged in suitable containers for transportation. Due to its low toxicity and stability, 2-Hydroxybenzenepropanoic acid can be easily shipped domestically and internationally using standard chemical transportation methods.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for 2-Hydroxybenzenepropanoic acid, also known as alpha-hydroxyisocaproic acid or AHICA, are important to note due to its potential hazards. AHICA is a potentially hazardous chemical substance that should be handled with care. It is recommended to wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and safety goggles, when working with AHICA to prevent contact with skin or eyes. Additionally, proper ventilation should be ensured when using AHICA to minimize the risk of inhalation exposure.
The pharmacology of 2-Hydroxybenzenepropanoic acid involves its role as a metabolite of leucine and its potential use as a dietary supplement in certain populations. AHICA has been studied for its potential benefits in improving endurance and reducing muscle damage during exercise. It is believed that AHICA may help in reducing muscle breakdown and promoting muscle protein synthesis, leading to improved athletic performance. However, further research is needed to fully understand the pharmacological effects of AHICA in various populations.
Hazard statements for 2-Hydroxybenzenepropanoic acid include its potential to cause skin and eye irritation upon contact. AHICA may also be harmful if swallowed, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. It is important to keep AHICA away from heat, sparks, and open flames, as it may be flammable in certain conditions. In case of exposure, it is recommended to seek medical attention immediately and provide the medical personnel with information about the substance for proper treatment.
Precautionary statements for 2-Hydroxybenzenepropanoic acid include storing it in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from incompatible materials. AHICA should be kept in a tightly sealed container to prevent accidental spills or leaks. When handling AHICA, it is important to follow good laboratory practices and proper chemical handling procedures to minimize the risk of exposure. In case of spills, it is recommended to clean up the area immediately and dispose of the waste properly in accordance with local regulations.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
Potential research directions for 2-Hydroxybenzenepropanoic acid include exploring its physiological effects on the human body and its potential applications in pharmaceuticals. Further studies could investigate its role in the regulation of inflammatory pathways and its potential as a treatment for various inflammatory conditions.
Additionally, research could focus on the synthesis of novel derivatives of 2-Hydroxybenzenepropanoic acid to enhance its pharmacological properties and improve its effectiveness in treating specific diseases. Investigating its interactions with other compounds and proteins could provide valuable insights into its mechanisms of action and lead to the development of more potent and selective drug candidates.
Furthermore, exploring the potential antioxidant and neuroprotective properties of 2-Hydroxybenzenepropanoic acid could open up new avenues for research in the field of neurodegenerative diseases. Investigating its ability to scavenge free radicals and protect against oxidative stress could lead to the development of novel therapies for conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to 2-Hydroxybenzenepropanoic acid based on molecular structure is 3-Hydroxybenzenepropanoic acid. This compound has a hydroxyl group attached to the benzene ring at the 3-position, similar to how 2-Hydroxybenzenepropanoic acid has a hydroxyl group at the 2-position. The presence of the propanoic acid group also provides similarity between the two compounds in terms of overall molecular structure.
Another comparable compound is 4-Hydroxybenzenepropanoic acid. In this compound, the hydroxyl group is located on the benzene ring at the 4-position, while the propanoic acid moiety remains consistent with the other compounds in this chemical class. The placement of the hydroxyl group on the benzene ring contributes to the structural similarity shared with 2-Hydroxybenzenepropanoic acid.
Additionally, 2-Hydroxybenzenepropanoic acid bears resemblance to 2-Hydroxybenzenepropionic acid. In this compound, the propanoic acid group is replaced with a propionic acid group, while still maintaining the hydroxyl group on the 2-position of the benzene ring. This minor alteration in the carboxylic acid moiety does not significantly impact the overall molecular structure and similarity to 2-Hydroxybenzenepropanoic acid.
