Alpha-Cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid is a compound that has important applications in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food. In the pharmaceutical industry, it is used as a matrix for analyzing proteins in mass spectrometry. In cosmetics, it is used in the production of hair dyes and as a UV filter. In the food industry, it is used as a food antioxidant and as a color stabilizer. Overall, alpha-Cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid plays a crucial role in various everyday products and processes, making it a significant compound in our daily lives.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
Alpha-Cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid has various commercial and industrial applications. It is commonly used as a matrix for matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS), a method for analyzing biomolecules such as proteins and peptides. Additionally, this compound is utilized in the production of pharmaceuticals, polymer materials, and agrochemicals due to its reactive nature and ability to facilitate chemical reactions.
In terms of drug and medication applications, alpha-Cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid plays a crucial role in the development of new pharmaceuticals. It is used as a reagent in the synthesis of various drugs, including anti-cancer agents, antibiotics, and antiviral medications. Furthermore, this compound is utilized in the formulation of drug delivery systems to enhance the bioavailability and efficacy of active pharmaceutical ingredients.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
Alpha-Cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid is a white crystalline solid with no distinctive odor. It is commonly used as a reagent in organic synthesis and biochemical research due to its unique chemical properties.
With a molar mass of 191.19 g/mol and a density of 1.29 g/cm³, alpha-Cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid is heavier than most common food items such as sugar or salt. This compound takes up less volume for the same mass compared to typical food items.
The melting point of alpha-Cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid ranges from 172-175°C, while the boiling point is approximately 370°C. These values are significantly higher than those of common food items, such as butter or chocolate, which melt at much lower temperatures.
Alpha-Cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid is sparingly soluble in water and has a high viscosity. This compound displays lower solubility in water compared to sugar or salt, and its viscosity is higher than that of most common food items, giving it a thicker consistency when dissolved.
🏭 Production & Procurement
Alpha-Cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid is typically produced through a multistep chemical synthesis process. This process involves the reaction of suitable starting materials under controlled conditions to yield the desired product. The final step often includes purification techniques such as recrystallization to obtain high purity alpha-Cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid.
Alpha-Cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid can be procured from chemical suppliers who specialize in providing research-grade organic compounds. These suppliers typically offer the acid in varying quantities to accommodate the needs of researchers and laboratories. Upon procurement, alpha-Cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid may be transported in sealed containers to ensure its stability and prevent contamination during transit.
Transportation of alpha-Cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid is typically done via standard shipping methods that comply with regulations for handling potentially hazardous materials. Special care is taken to label containers properly and provide appropriate packaging to prevent leaks or spills. Additionally, temperature-controlled transport may be necessary to maintain the integrity of the compound during transit.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for alpha-Cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid should prioritize the potential hazards associated with this compound. It is important to note that alpha-Cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid may cause skin irritation upon contact, therefore, proper personal protective equipment such as gloves and lab coats should be worn during handling. Additionally, this compound may also pose a respiratory hazard if inhaled, so it is recommended that appropriate ventilation measures be in place to minimize exposure.
In terms of hazard statements for alpha-Cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid, it is important to highlight that this compound is harmful if swallowed, causing gastrointestinal irritation and discomfort. Furthermore, alpha-Cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid may cause damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure, specifically targeting the respiratory system. It is also crucial to note that this compound may be harmful to aquatic life if released into the environment, stressing the importance of proper disposal methods.
Precautionary statements for alpha-Cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid should emphasize the need for safe handling practices to minimize the risk of exposure. It is essential to store this compound in a cool, dry place away from incompatible materials to prevent potential reactions. Furthermore, proper waste disposal procedures should be followed to avoid environmental contamination. It is also advised to wash hands thoroughly after handling alpha-Cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid and to avoid releasing it into the environment.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
Research on alpha-Cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid (CHCA) has primarily focused on its role as a matrix in matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry. Future studies may explore alternative matrices with improved ionization efficiency and lower background noise levels to enhance detection sensitivity in proteomics and metabolomics research.
Additionally, investigations into the chemical properties of CHCA could shed light on its potential applications in the pharmaceutical industry. Research may involve synthesizing modified derivatives of CHCA to optimize its solubility, stability, and reactivity, ultimately leading to the development of novel drug delivery systems or pharmaceutical formulations.
Furthermore, studies on the biological activities of CHCA may uncover its potential as a therapeutic agent. Research could explore the antioxidant, antimicrobial, or anti-inflammatory properties of CHCA, with the aim of identifying new drug candidates for the treatment of various diseases. Such investigations may also involve elucidating the underlying mechanisms of action of CHCA at the molecular level.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to alpha-Cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid is 3,4-dihydroxycinnamic acid. This compound shares a similar molecular structure with alpha-Cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid, as it contains two hydroxyl groups on the phenyl ring. However, 3,4-dihydroxycinnamic acid does not contain a cyano group like alpha-Cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid.
Another compound with a comparable structure to alpha-Cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid is 4-hydroxycinnamic acid. This compound also contains a hydroxyl group on the phenyl ring, like alpha-Cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid. However, 4-hydroxycinnamic acid lacks the cyano group present in alpha-Cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid, making it a slightly different compound with a similar structure.
One additional compound resembling alpha-Cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid is 3-cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid. This compound possesses a cyano group similar to alpha-Cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid, but it is located on the third carbon of the phenyl ring rather than the alpha position. Although 3-cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid differs in the position of the cyano group, it shares structural similarities with alpha-Cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid.
