Dihydroorotic acid, an intermediate compound in the biosynthesis of pyrimidine nucleotides, plays a critical role in the production of DNA and RNA in living organisms. This compound is essential for cell growth and proliferation, making it integral to various biological processes. Understanding the function of dihydroorotic acid is crucial for advancing our knowledge of genetics and biochemistry, and may have implications for the development of new treatments for diseases related to nucleotide metabolism. In everyday life, this compound may not be immediately noticeable, but its significance lies in its fundamental role in the maintenance of cellular function and overall health.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
Dihydroorotic acid, a key intermediate in the biosynthesis of pyrimidines, has limited commercial and industrial applications. One notable application is in the production of certain pesticides, where Dihydroorotic acid serves as a precursor in the synthesis of specific compounds. Additionally, it is utilized in laboratory research for studying metabolic pathways and investigating enzymatic reactions.
In the field of drug and medication applications, Dihydroorotic acid plays a crucial role in the development of pharmaceuticals targeting various medical conditions. For example, it is a component in some antiviral medications that inhibit the replication of certain viruses by interfering with pyrimidine biosynthesis. Furthermore, research is ongoing to explore its potential therapeutic implications in treating cancer and other diseases by targeting abnormal cell proliferation.
Overall, while Dihydroorotic acid may not have extensive commercial or industrial uses, its importance in drug development and medical research cannot be overstated. Its role in pyrimidine biosynthesis makes it a valuable compound for understanding cellular processes and developing new treatments for a range of health conditions.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
Dihydroorotic acid is a white crystalline powder with no distinct odor. It is typically found in a solid state and does not emit any noticeable smell.
With a molar mass of approximately 160.10 g/mol and a density of 1.46 g/cm³, dihydroorotic acid falls within the range of molar mass and density of common household items such as sugar and table salt.
Dihydroorotic acid has a melting point of around 235°C and a boiling point of approximately 423°C. These values are significantly higher compared to common household items like butter and candle wax.
Dihydroorotic acid is sparingly soluble in water and has a relatively low viscosity. In comparison to household items like vinegar and rubbing alcohol, dihydroorotic acid exhibits lower solubility in water and lower viscosity.
🏭 Production & Procurement
Dihydroorotic acid is a pyrimidine intermediate synthesized in living organisms through enzymatic reactions involving carbamoyl phosphate and aspartate. The production of Dihydroorotic acid is a vital step in the de novo synthesis of pyrimidines, which are essential for nucleotide production in cells.
Dihydroorotic acid can be procured through commercial suppliers specializing in biochemical reagents. It is typically supplied as a white crystalline powder and must be stored in a dry and dark environment to prevent degradation. Transportation of Dihydroorotic acid follows standard protocols for handling sensitive chemical compounds, including proper labeling and packaging to ensure safe delivery to the end user.
Care must be taken to ensure the purity and quality of procured Dihydroorotic acid, as impurities can affect experimental outcomes in biological research. Quality control measures, such as chromatographic analysis and spectroscopic techniques, are often employed to verify the identity and concentration of Dihydroorotic acid before use in laboratory experiments. Proper storage and handling of Dihydroorotic acid are crucial to maintain its stability and efficacy for scientific applications.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety Considerations for Dihydroorotic Acid:
Dihydroorotic acid should be handled with caution due to its potential health hazards. It is important to wear appropriate personal protective equipment when working with this substance, such as gloves, goggles, and a lab coat. It should be used in a well-ventilated area to prevent inhalation of fumes.
Pharmacology of Dihydroorotic Acid:
Dihydroorotic acid is a precursor in the biosynthesis of pyrimidine nucleotides. It plays a crucial role in the de novo pyrimidine biosynthesis pathway, which is essential for DNA and RNA synthesis. Inhibition of dihydroorotic acid synthesis can lead to impaired cell proliferation and growth.
Hazard Statements for Dihydroorotic Acid:
Dihydroorotic acid may cause skin and eye irritation upon contact. It is harmful if swallowed or inhaled, and can cause respiratory irritation. Prolonged or repeated exposure may cause damage to organs such as the liver, kidneys, and respiratory system.
Precautionary Statements for Dihydroorotic Acid:
When handling dihydroorotic acid, avoid direct contact with the skin, eyes, and clothing. Do not ingest or inhale the substance, and wash hands thoroughly after handling. Store dihydroorotic acid in a cool, dry place away from incompatible materials, and dispose of it properly according to local regulations.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for dihydroorotic acid is its role in pyrimidine biosynthesis and its connection to cell proliferation. Understanding the mechanisms by which dihydroorotic acid is regulated could provide insights into designing therapies targeting rapidly proliferating cancer cells.
Another avenue of research could focus on the interactions between dihydroorotic acid and other metabolic pathways, such as the urea cycle or nucleotide metabolism. Investigating these interconnections may elucidate the broader metabolic networks in which dihydroorotic acid participates and shed light on its potential as a therapeutic target for metabolic disorders.
Furthermore, exploring the impact of dihydroorotic acid on mitochondrial function and oxidative stress could uncover its potential role in mitochondrial metabolism and cellular redox balance. Studying the effects of dihydroorotic acid on mitochondrial respiration and reactive oxygen species production may reveal novel pathways for modulating cellular metabolism and oxidative stress response.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to Dihydroorotic acid based on molecular structure is Orotic acid. It is a precursor in the pyrimidine biosynthetic pathway and has a similar molecular structure to Dihydroorotic acid, containing a pyrimidine ring. Orotic acid is important for the production of nucleotides and is involved in the synthesis of DNA and RNA.
Another compound that bears resemblance to Dihydroorotic acid is Uracil. Uracil is a pyrimidine base found in RNA and plays a crucial role in protein synthesis. It has a structure similar to Dihydroorotic acid, with a pyrimidine ring. Uracil is one of the four nucleobases in RNA, along with adenine, cytosine, and guanine.
One more compound with a molecular structure akin to Dihydroorotic acid is Cytidine. Cytidine is a nucleoside formed when cytosine is attached to a ribose sugar. It contains a pyrimidine ring similar to Dihydroorotic acid and is a vital component of RNA. Cytidine is involved in coding genetic information and plays a crucial role in cellular metabolism.
