D-1,4-Dithiothreitol, commonly referred to as DTT, is a chemical compound widely used in various biochemical and molecular biology applications. It serves as a reducing agent that helps break disulfide bonds in proteins and facilitate protein unfolding. This is crucial in protein structure studies, enzyme kinetics assays, and protein purification processes. Additionally, DTT is utilized in the production of hair products, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Its ability to protect products against oxidation makes it valuable in preserving their integrity and extending shelf life. In essence, while D-1,4-Dithiothreitol may not be a household name, its impact on everyday life through its diverse applications is significant.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
D-1,4-Dithiothreitol, commonly referred to as DTT, is utilized in various commercial and industrial applications. One of its primary uses is as a reducing agent in biochemical and biotechnological processes. DTT is often employed to break disulfide bonds in proteins, allowing for the study and manipulation of protein structures.
In addition to its commercial and industrial uses, D-1,4-Dithiothreitol also plays a significant role in drug and medication applications. It is commonly utilized in the pharmaceutical industry as a stabilizing agent for enzymes and proteins. DTT helps to maintain the activity of these biological molecules, ensuring the efficacy of certain drugs and medications.
Furthermore, D-1,4-Dithiothreitol is employed in the production of various diagnostic kits and assays. Its ability to reduce disulfide bonds makes it a valuable component in tests that require the detection of specific proteins or antibodies. This application of DTT is crucial in medical diagnostics and research laboratories, where accurate and reliable results are essential.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
D-1,4-Dithiothreitol is a white crystalline solid compound with a slight sulfurous odor. It is commonly used as a reducing agent in biochemistry and molecular biology experiments.
The molar mass of D-1,4-Dithiothreitol is approximately 154.25 g/mol, and its density is 1.32 g/cm3. This compound has a higher molar mass compared to common food items like table sugar and salt, but similar density.
D-1,4-Dithiothreitol has a melting point of around 40-43°C and a boiling point of 110°C. These values are much higher than those of common food items like butter and chocolate, which have lower melting and boiling points.
D-1,4-Dithiothreitol is highly soluble in water and has a relatively high viscosity. This compound’s solubility in water is greater than that of common food items like flour and sugar, and its viscosity is generally higher as well.
🏭 Production & Procurement
D-1,4-Dithiothreitol, also known as DTT, is produced through a multistep chemical synthesis process. The starting material for the production of DTT is threo-1,4-dichloro-2-butyne, which undergoes a series of reactions to yield the final product. This process involves the use of various reagents and purification steps to ensure the quality and purity of the DTT produced.
To procure D-1,4-Dithiothreitol, one can purchase it from chemical suppliers or manufacturers specializing in biochemical reagents. DTT is commonly available in solid or powder form in various packaging sizes to accommodate different quantities needed for research or industrial use. Once procured, DTT can be transported in sealed containers to prevent contamination and degradation during transit. Special care should be taken to store and handle DTT according to safety guidelines to ensure its stability and effectiveness.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for D-1,4-Dithiothreitol include handling the substance in a well-ventilated area to prevent inhalation of fumes. Personal protective equipment such as gloves, goggles, and lab coats should be worn when working with D-1,4-Dithiothreitol to prevent skin and eye contact. In case of accidental ingestion, medical advice should be sought immediately, and contaminated clothing should be removed.
Hazard statements for D-1,4-Dithiothreitol include “Causes skin irritation,” “Causes serious eye irritation,” and “May cause respiratory irritation.” These hazard statements indicate that exposure to D-1,4-Dithiothreitol can result in irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. It is important to take precautions to avoid contact with the substance and to handle it carefully to minimize the risk of these hazards.
Precautionary statements for D-1,4-Dithiothreitol include “Wash thoroughly after handling,” “Do not eat, drink, or smoke when using this product,” and “Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.” These precautionary statements emphasize the importance of practicing good hygiene when working with D-1,4-Dithiothreitol, avoiding ingestion of the substance, and ensuring proper ventilation to reduce exposure to fumes. Following these precautions can help prevent accidents and minimize the risks associated with handling D-1,4-Dithiothreitol.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
Research on D-1,4-Dithiothreitol, commonly known as DTT, has primarily focused on its role as a reducing agent in biochemistry and molecular biology experiments.
One potential research direction includes investigating the use of DTT in protein folding studies, as it can break disulfide bonds and facilitate proper protein structure formation.
Another area of interest is exploring the potential of DTT as a stabilizing agent for enzymes and other biological molecules, particularly in harsh conditions such as high temperatures or extreme pH levels.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to D-1,4-Dithiothreitol based upon molecular structure is DL-Dithiothreitol, also known as DTT. DL-Dithiothreitol is a racemic mixture of D- and L-enantiomers, unlike D-1,4-Dithiothreitol which is optically active. DL-Dithiothreitol is commonly used as a reducing agent in biochemistry and molecular biology applications due to its ability to break disulfide bonds in proteins.
Another compound with a similar molecular structure to D-1,4-Dithiothreitol is Mercaptoethanol, also known as beta-mercaptoethanol or BME. Mercaptoethanol is a thiol compound that is also used as a reducing agent in biological experiments. Like D-1,4-Dithiothreitol, Mercaptoethanol is able to disrupt disulfide bonds in proteins to facilitate protein unfolding and denaturation.
A third compound that shares a molecular structure similarity with D-1,4-Dithiothreitol is Cysteamine, also known as 2-aminoethanethiol. Cysteamine is a thiol compound that is used in the treatment of cystinosis, a genetic disorder characterized by the accumulation of cystine in various organs. Like D-1,4-Dithiothreitol, Cysteamine has a sulfhydryl group that can interact with and modify proteins, making it useful in various biochemical studies and applications.
