DL-Alanine is a non-essential amino acid that serves as a building block for proteins in the human body. It plays a vital role in various physiological processes, including the regulation of blood sugar levels and the synthesis of neurotransmitters. In everyday life, DL-Alanine can be found in many food sources such as meat, dairy products, and certain grains. Its importance lies in supporting overall health and well-being through its contribution to muscle development, energy production, and immune function.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
DL-Alanine, a non-essential amino acid, has a variety of commercial and industrial applications. It is commonly used as a flavor enhancer in food products and as a component in skincare products due to its ability to improve skin hydration. DL-Alanine is also utilized in the production of pharmaceuticals, as well as in the manufacturing of chemicals and plastics.
In the realm of drug and medication applications, DL-Alanine plays a crucial role in the formulation of intravenous solutions to replenish amino acid levels in patients with certain medical conditions. It is also used in the development of supplements aimed at improving athletic performance and muscle recovery. Additionally, DL-Alanine is a key ingredient in parenteral nutrition solutions, providing essential nutrients to individuals who are unable to consume food orally.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
DL-Alanine is a white, crystalline powder with a faint characteristic odor. Its appearance is similar to common table salt, but with a different odor profile.
The molar mass of DL-Alanine is approximately 89.1 g/mol, and its density is about 1.42 g/cm³. This places it in the range of common household items like baking soda, but with a slightly higher molar mass and density.
DL-Alanine has a melting point of approximately 295°C and a boiling point of around 255°C. These values are significantly higher compared to common household items like sugar or salt, which have lower melting and boiling points.
DL-Alanine is highly soluble in water and has low viscosity. This sets it apart from common household items like sand or oil, which are less soluble in water and have higher viscosity levels.
🏭 Production & Procurement
DL-Alanine is typically produced through chemical synthesis methods, using readily available starting materials. One common method involves the reaction of ammonium chloride with acrylonitrile, followed by hydrolysis to yield DL-Alanine. This process allows for the production of large quantities of DL-Alanine in a cost-effective manner.
DL-Alanine can be procured from various chemical manufacturers and suppliers, who offer the compound in both bulk quantities and smaller, laboratory-scale quantities. The compound is typically transported in solid form, either as a powder or as crystalline flakes, in sealed containers or bags to prevent contamination or degradation during transit. DL-Alanine is stable under normal storage conditions and is not prone to spontaneous degradation.
For industrial applications requiring large quantities of DL-Alanine, the compound may be delivered via tanker trucks or rail cars in liquid form, dissolved in a suitable solvent for ease of handling and transport. Specialized equipment and protocols may be required for the safe handling and transport of DL-Alanine in liquid form, due to its potential reactivity and flammability. Careful consideration must be given to the handling and storage of DL-Alanine to ensure its purity and integrity throughout the procurement and transportation process.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for DL-Alanine include its potential to cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. It is important to handle DL-Alanine with care and use appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and safety goggles, when working with this substance. DL-Alanine should be stored in a well-ventilated area away from incompatible materials to prevent any potential hazards.
DL-Alanine is a non-essential amino acid that plays a key role in the protein metabolism of the human body. It is a precursor to various important molecules, such as glucose, pyruvate, and acetyl-CoA. DL-Alanine is involved in the maintenance of nitrogen balance in the body and is essential for the growth and development of muscle tissue.
Hazard statements for DL-Alanine include its potential to cause skin irritation, eye irritation, and respiratory irritation upon exposure. DL-Alanine may also cause allergic reactions in some individuals. It is important to avoid direct contact with DL-Alanine and to use appropriate protective measures to minimize the risk of exposure.
Precautionary statements for DL-Alanine include avoiding inhalation, ingestion, and direct skin contact with the substance. Proper ventilation should be maintained when working with DL-Alanine to prevent the buildup of vapors. In case of accidental exposure, it is important to seek medical attention immediately and provide information about the substance to healthcare professionals.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
Research on DL-Alanine has shown its potential applications in various fields such as pharmaceuticals, food industry, and agriculture. Future investigations may focus on exploring its role in the synthesis of peptides and proteins, as well as its potential therapeutic properties in the treatment of medical conditions.
Studies may also be conducted to investigate the effects of DL-Alanine on muscle metabolism and energy production, particularly in the context of sports nutrition and exercise physiology. Furthermore, researchers may explore its interactions with other amino acids and its impact on overall health and well-being.
In the field of biotechnology, DL-Alanine may be studied for its potential as a precursor in the production of various chemicals and materials. Additionally, investigations into its role in microbial metabolism and its influence on microbial growth and development may provide new insights into the application of DL-Alanine in industrial processes.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to DL-Alanine is L-Alanine. L-Alanine is the enantiomer of DL-Alanine, meaning it has the same molecular formula and connectivity but differs in its spatial arrangement. L-Alanine is a non-essential amino acid that plays a crucial role in protein synthesis and energy production in the body. It has been studied for its potential effects on muscle growth and recovery in athletes.
Another similar compound to DL-Alanine is β-Alanine. β-Alanine is a non-proteinogenic amino acid that is commonly used as a dietary supplement to enhance exercise performance and muscle endurance. It differs from DL-Alanine in its molecular structure, specifically in the position of the amino group on the beta carbon atom. β-Alanine is a precursor to carnosine, a dipeptide that helps buffer lactic acid build-up in muscles during high-intensity exercise.
A third similar compound to DL-Alanine is L-Serine. L-Serine is a non-essential amino acid that is involved in the synthesis of proteins, phospholipids, and neurotransmitters in the body. It is structurally similar to DL-Alanine but differs in the presence of a hydroxyl group on its side chain. L-Serine plays a crucial role in brain function and has been studied for its potential therapeutic applications in neurodegenerative disorders.
