Dehydroalanine is a significant compound in the field of biochemistry due to its involvement in the formation of cross-links in proteins. These cross-links play a crucial role in stabilizing protein structures and have implications in various physiological processes within the human body. Understanding the role of dehydroalanine in protein structure can provide valuable insights into drug development, disease mechanisms, and overall human health. Therefore, the study of dehydroalanine holds relevance in everyday life by contributing to advancements in medical research and potentially improving healthcare outcomes.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
Dehydroalanine, also known as dehydroamino acid, has various commercial and industrial applications. One key use is as a building block for peptides and proteins in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. It is also utilized in the development of peptide-based drugs and bioconjugates due to its unique chemical properties.
In drug and medication applications, dehydroalanine plays a significant role as a reactive moiety in the design of targeted therapeutics. It can be incorporated into drug molecules to enhance their effectiveness and specificity in targeting certain diseases or conditions. This makes dehydroalanine a valuable tool in the field of medicinal chemistry for creating innovative drug candidates with improved pharmacological properties.
Furthermore, dehydroalanine has been employed in the development of biologically active compounds with potential applications in various disease treatments. Its ability to form stable covalent bonds with biological molecules makes it an attractive option for designing novel drugs with enhanced potency and selectivity. This versatile amino acid derivative continues to be a subject of research in the pharmaceutical industry for its promising applications in drug discovery and development.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
Dehydroalanine, also known as 2-Aminoprop-2-enoic acid, is a non-proteinogenic amino acid derived from serine. It is a white crystalline solid with no distinct odor.
With a molar mass of 89.09 g/mol and a density of 1.504 g/cm3, dehydroalanine is lighter and less dense compared to common food items such as sugar (molar mass: 342.30 g/mol, density: 1.59 g/cm3) and salt (molar mass: 58.44 g/mol, density: 2.16 g/cm3).
Dehydroalanine has a melting point of approximately 107-109°C and a boiling point of approximately 393°C. In comparison, common food items such as butter (melting point: 32-35°C, boiling point: 177-204°C) and olive oil (melting point: -6°C, boiling point: 200-300°C) have lower melting and boiling points.
Dehydroalanine is sparingly soluble in water and has a low viscosity. This contrasts with common food items like sugar and salt, which are highly soluble in water and have higher viscosities.
🏭 Production & Procurement
Dehydroalanine is most commonly produced through the elimination of a water molecule from serine or threonine residues in peptides. This process often occurs through enzymatic pathways, such as the action of dehydratase enzymes.
In order to procure Dehydroalanine, specialized chemical synthesis techniques may be employed to create the desired compound. Additionally, Dehydroalanine can also be accessed through the isolation of natural sources or by utilizing biotechnological methods to produce it in a controlled environment.
Once Dehydroalanine has been produced or procured, it can be transported in its purified form using standard chemical handling procedures. Protective measures may be necessary to prevent degradation and ensure the stability of the compound during transportation. The use of specialized containers or packaging materials may be required to ensure the safe delivery of Dehydroalanine to its intended destination.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for Dehydroalanine involve careful handling due to its potential for causing skin and eye irritation. The substance should only be used in well-ventilated areas to avoid inhalation of vapors. Additionally, it is essential to wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and safety goggles, when working with Dehydroalanine to prevent any potential harmful effects.
Hazard statements for Dehydroalanine include “Causes skin and eye irritation” and “May cause respiratory irritation.” It is important to be aware of these hazards when working with the substance to minimize any potential risks to health. Proper precautions should be taken to prevent exposure and to ensure the safety of individuals handling Dehydroalanine.
Precautionary statements for Dehydroalanine recommend storing the substance in a cool, dry place away from incompatible materials. It is important to keep the container tightly closed when not in use to prevent any accidental spills or leaks. In case of skin or eye contact, immediate medical attention should be sought, and contaminated clothing should be removed and washed before reuse. Additionally, any spills should be cleaned up promptly and safely to avoid any further exposure to Dehydroalanine.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
Research on dehydroalanine, an uncommon amino acid residue generated from the dehydration of serine or cysteine, has significant potential in the field of medicinal chemistry. It is involved in the formation of diverse natural products, such as peptidic and non-peptidic compounds with bioactive properties. Further exploration of dehydroalanine derivatives could lead to the development of novel therapeutic agents.
Studies focusing on the chemical reactivity and stability of dehydroalanine are essential for understanding its unique properties and potential applications. Investigation into the structural modifications of dehydroalanine-containing peptides may reveal insights into their biological activity and pharmacological relevance. This research could pave the way for the design and synthesis of dehydroalanine-based drugs with improved efficacy and safety profiles.
Exploration of the biosynthetic pathways involved in the formation of dehydroalanine in natural products could uncover new enzymatic reactions and mechanisms. Understanding the biosynthesis of dehydroalanine-containing compounds may inspire the development of biocatalytic methods for producing these molecules in a sustainable and efficient manner. This research direction holds promise for the discovery of novel bioactive compounds with therapeutic potential.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to Dehydroalanine based upon molecular structure is Dehydroaminobutyric acid. This compound is an unsaturated amino acid that contains a double bond between the alpha carbon and the nitrogen atom. Dehydroaminobutyric acid is commonly found in peptides and proteins, where it plays a role in stabilizing the structure of the molecule.
Another compound similar to Dehydroalanine is Dehydrocysteine. Like Dehydroalanine, Dehydrocysteine contains a double bond between the sulfur atom and the beta carbon. This compound is often found in proteins and peptides, where it can participate in various types of chemical reactions and contribute to the overall structure and function of the molecule.
A third similar compound to Dehydroalanine is Dehydromethionine. This compound contains a double bond between the sulfur atom and the alpha carbon, similar to Dehydroalanine. Dehydromethionine is an uncommon amino acid that is sometimes found in proteins and peptides, where it can participate in various biochemical processes and interactions.
