4-Fluorophenylalanine is a compound of interest in various fields, particularly in the realm of biomedicine and pharmaceuticals. This derivative of phenylalanine has been studied for its potential applications in drug development due to its ability to selectively target specific biological pathways. Additionally, research on 4-Fluorophenylalanine has provided insights into the design of new therapies for various conditions, highlighting its relevance to advancing medical treatments and improving health outcomes in everyday life.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
4-Fluorophenylalanine, a derivative of the amino acid phenylalanine, holds potential for various commercial and industrial applications. In the pharmaceutical industry, it is utilized as a building block for the synthesis of specific drugs and medications. Additionally, 4-Fluorophenylalanine serves as a key component in the development of novel chemical compounds for research purposes.
On a commercial scale, 4-Fluorophenylalanine is employed in the production of specialty chemicals and fine chemicals. Its unique properties make it a valuable ingredient in the formulation of certain coatings, adhesives, and polymers. Furthermore, this compound is utilized in the manufacturing of agrochemicals and pharmaceutical intermediates, contributing to advancements in various industries.
In drug and medication applications, 4-Fluorophenylalanine plays a crucial role in the synthesis of specific pharmaceuticals. Its incorporation into drug formulations can enhance therapeutic efficacy and improve target specificity. Researchers continue to explore the potential of 4-Fluorophenylalanine in drug discovery and development, aiming to address unmet medical needs and improve patient outcomes.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
4-Fluorophenylalanine appears as a white crystalline solid with no distinct odor. Its chemical structure includes a fluorine atom attached to the phenylalanine molecule, imparting additional properties compared to its parent compound.
The molar mass of 4-Fluorophenylalanine is approximately 181.18 g/mol, with a density of about 1.35 g/cm³. This puts it in the same range as common food items like sugars and amino acids in terms of molar mass and density, making it a comparable organic compound.
The melting point of 4-Fluorophenylalanine ranges from 158-160°C, while the boiling point is typically around 368-370°C. These values are higher than those of most common food items, indicating a higher degree of thermal stability and requiring higher temperatures for phase transitions.
4-Fluorophenylalanine is sparingly soluble in water, and its viscosity is relatively low compared to common food items like sugars and proteins. This limited solubility and lower viscosity suggest that it may not readily dissolve or mix uniformly in aqueous solutions, distinguishing it from more soluble food components.
🏭 Production & Procurement
4-Fluorophenylalanine, an amino acid derivative, is typically produced through chemical synthesis in a laboratory setting. The process involves the reaction of phenylalanine with a fluorinating agent to substitute the hydrogen atom with a fluorine atom. This results in the formation of 4-Fluorophenylalanine, which can then be isolated and purified for further use.
Procuring and transporting 4-Fluorophenylalanine typically involves ordering the compound from chemical suppliers who specialize in amino acid derivatives. The compound is usually supplied in a solid form, such as a powder or crystals, and packaged in a secure container to prevent contamination and ensure safety during transport. Proper labeling and documentation are necessary for compliance with regulations regarding hazardous materials.
Upon receipt, 4-Fluorophenylalanine should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture to maintain its stability. Special precautions should be taken when handling the compound, including the use of appropriate protective equipment such as gloves and goggles. Proper disposal methods should also be followed to prevent environmental contamination.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety Considerations for 4-Fluorophenylalanine:
4-Fluorophenylalanine is a chemical compound that requires proper handling to avoid potential hazards. It is important to wear appropriate personal protective equipment such as gloves, goggles, and lab coats when working with this compound. Care should be taken to prevent skin contact, inhalation, or ingestion of 4-Fluorophenylalanine to minimize the risk of adverse health effects. Additionally, this compound should be stored in a well-ventilated area away from incompatible materials to prevent accidents or chemical reactions.
Hazard Statements for 4-Fluorophenylalanine:
The hazard statements for 4-Fluorophenylalanine include “Causes skin irritation” and “Causes serious eye irritation.” These statements indicate that contact with this compound can lead to skin and eye irritation, highlighting the importance of using protective equipment and handling procedures to prevent exposure. It is essential to be cautious when working with 4-Fluorophenylalanine to avoid these potential hazards and protect the health of individuals handling this compound.
Precautionary Statements for 4-Fluorophenylalanine:
Precautionary statements for 4-Fluorophenylalanine include “Wash hands thoroughly after handling” and “Wear protective gloves/eye protection/face protection.” These statements emphasize the importance of personal hygiene and the use of appropriate protective equipment to minimize the risk of exposure to this compound. Following these precautionary measures is crucial in ensuring safe handling practices and preventing potential health risks associated with 4-Fluorophenylalanine.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for 4-Fluorophenylalanine is its utilization as a biochemical probe in protein studies. By incorporating this fluorinated amino acid into proteins, researchers can gain insight into protein structure and function through various techniques such as X-ray crystallography and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy.
Furthermore, 4-Fluorophenylalanine can serve as a valuable tool in studying protein-protein interactions. By selectively labeling specific amino acids with fluorophores, researchers can track the binding dynamics of proteins in complex biological systems. This can provide a deeper understanding of signaling pathways and cellular processes.
Another avenue of research involves the development of novel pharmaceuticals using 4-Fluorophenylalanine as a building block. By introducing this fluorinated amino acid into drug molecules, researchers can potentially enhance drug potency, selectivity, and metabolic stability. This can lead to the discovery of new therapeutics for various diseases and medical conditions.
Finally, exploring the metabolic fate of 4-Fluorophenylalanine in living organisms can shed light on its pharmacokinetics and potential toxicity. Studying the enzymatic pathways involved in the metabolism of this compound can inform drug development strategies and help optimize dosing regimens. This research may also uncover new insights into the physiological effects of fluorinated amino acids in biological systems.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to 4-Fluorophenylalanine based upon molecular structure is 2-Fluorophenylalanine. In this compound, the fluorine atom is located on the second carbon of the phenylalanine side chain, rather than the fourth carbon as in 4-Fluorophenylalanine. This slight change in position can lead to different biological activities and properties compared to 4-Fluorophenylalanine.
Another similar compound is 3-Fluorophenylalanine, where the fluorine atom is attached to the third carbon of the phenylalanine side chain. Like 4-Fluorophenylalanine, this compound can potentially exhibit altered pharmacological effects due to the presence of the fluorine atom. Understanding the differences in structure and properties of these related compounds can provide valuable insights for drug development and biological research.
A further related compound is 4-Chlorophenylalanine, which contains a chlorine atom instead of a fluorine atom on the phenylalanine side chain. Chlorine and fluorine are both halogen elements with similar chemical properties, but subtle differences in reactivity and biological interactions can arise due to the varying electronic structures of these halogens. The study of compounds like 4-Chlorophenylalanine alongside 4-Fluorophenylalanine can elucidate the impact of halogen substitution on the behavior of amino acids and related molecules.
