Cis-zeatin is a naturally occurring plant hormone that plays a crucial role in various physiological processes, such as promoting cell division, growth, and delaying aging in plants. While not directly relevant to everyday human life, the study of cis-zeatin has important implications for agriculture and horticulture as it can help improve crop yields, enhance plant resistance to environmental stresses, and produce healthier and more vigorous plants. As such, understanding the functions and mechanisms of cis-zeatin can have a significant impact on our food production and overall ecosystem health.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
Cis-Zeatin, a naturally occurring plant hormone, has various commercial and industrial applications. It is frequently used in agriculture as a growth promoter for crops, contributing to increased yields and improved plant health. In addition, its antioxidant properties make it a valuable ingredient in skincare products, where it helps to combat signs of aging and promote skin rejuvenation.
In the realm of drug and medication applications, Cis-Zeatin shows promise in various pharmaceutical formulations. Research suggests that it may have potential therapeutic benefits, such as anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Furthermore, its ability to stimulate cell division and regeneration makes it a candidate for use in wound healing and tissue regeneration applications.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
Cis-Zeatin is a cytokinin plant hormone with a needle-like crystal appearance. It is typically odorless or has a faint, sweet smell. The compound is commonly found in plants and plays a crucial role in cell division and growth regulation.
Cis-Zeatin has a molar mass of approximately 220.24 g/mol and a density of around 1.37 g/cm³. In comparison to common food items, Cis-Zeatin has a higher molar mass than glucose (180.16 g/mol) and a lower density than water (1 g/cm³). These properties contribute to its distinct chemical characteristics.
The melting point of Cis-Zeatin ranges from 166-170°C, while the boiling point is approximately 325°C. Compared to common food items like sugar (melting point: 160-186°C) and butter (boiling point: 100°C), Cis-Zeatin has a higher melting point and significantly higher boiling point. These high temperatures are essential for the compound’s stability and functionality.
Cis-Zeatin is sparingly soluble in water, with a viscosity similar to that of a dilute solution. This contrasts with common food items like salt and sugar, which are highly soluble in water and form viscous solutions. The solubility and viscosity of Cis-Zeatin affect its distribution and transportation within plant tissues.
🏭 Production & Procurement
Cis-Zeatin, a naturally occurring plant hormone, is predominantly produced through various biotechnological methods. These methods typically involve the cloning and expression of biosynthetic genes in microbial hosts, such as bacteria or yeast, to synthesize Cis-Zeatin in large quantities.
Once Cis-Zeatin is produced, it can be procured through specialized biotechnology companies or research institutions that focus on the production and distribution of plant hormones. The procurement process often involves the purchase of purified Cis-Zeatin in powder or liquid form, which can then be transported in sealed containers to maintain its stability and efficacy.
In terms of transportation, Cis-Zeatin is typically shipped in temperature-controlled containers to prevent degradation during transit. This ensures that the product retains its biological activity upon arrival at its destination. Additionally, proper documentation and labeling are essential for the safe and efficient transport of Cis-Zeatin to various research facilities and agricultural establishments.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for Cis-Zeatin include the potential for eye and skin irritation upon contact. It is important to handle this compound with care and wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and goggles, to minimize the risk of exposure. In case of accidental ingestion or inhalation, seek medical attention immediately.
Hazard statements for Cis-Zeatin include “Causes skin irritation” and “Causes serious eye irritation.” These statements highlight the potential risks associated with this compound and underscore the importance of taking proper precautions when handling it. It is essential to follow safety guidelines and protocols to avoid any adverse effects.
Precautionary statements for Cis-Zeatin include “Wash hands thoroughly after handling” and “Wear protective gloves/eye protection/face protection.” These statements emphasize the importance of practicing good hygiene and using appropriate protective gear when working with Cis-Zeatin. By following these precautions, the risk of exposure and potential harm can be minimized.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
Research on Cis-Zeatin has shown promising potential in various fields of study. One direction for further investigation could be exploring its role in plant growth and development. Understanding how Cis-Zeatin impacts processes such as cell division and differentiation could provide valuable insights for agricultural practices and crop improvement.
Another research avenue could focus on the potential medicinal properties of Cis-Zeatin. Preliminary studies have suggested that this cytokinin may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, indicating its potential for use in pharmaceutical applications. Investigating the mechanisms underlying these biological activities could lead to the development of novel therapeutic agents.
Furthermore, exploring the interactions of Cis-Zeatin with other plant growth regulators could offer additional avenues for research. Studying how this cytokinin interacts with hormones such as auxin or gibberellins could provide a more comprehensive understanding of the complex signaling networks that regulate plant growth and development. This research could have implications for enhancing crop yields and tolerance to environmental stressors.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to Cis-Zeatin based upon molecular structure is Trans-Zeatin. Trans-Zeatin is an isomer of Cis-Zeatin, meaning the two compounds have the same molecular formula but differ in the arrangement of atoms. Specifically, Trans-Zeatin has the same carbon backbone as Cis-Zeatin, but the hydroxyl group and the isoprenoid side chain are on opposite sides of the double bond.
Another similar compound to Cis-Zeatin is N6-Benzyladenine (6-Benzylaminopurine). N6-Benzyladenine is structurally related to Cis-Zeatin as both compounds contain an adenine base with a substituted side chain. However, in N6-Benzyladenine, the side chain is a benzyl group instead of an isoprenoid group. This difference in side chain attachment results in different biological activities and properties between the two compounds.
A third compound similar to Cis-Zeatin is Kinetin (6-Furfurylaminopurine). Kinetin is a cytokinin, like Cis-Zeatin, and shares a similar purine base structure. However, Kinetin has a furfuryl group attached to the N6 position of the adenine base instead of an isoprenoid group. This structural difference can affect the cytokinin-like activities of Kinetin compared to Cis-Zeatin.
