DL-Homocystine is a naturally occurring amino acid that plays a crucial role in various biological processes within the human body. Specifically, DL-Homocystine is involved in the metabolism of methionine and cysteine, two other amino acids that are essential for protein synthesis and overall cellular function.
In everyday life, maintaining appropriate levels of DL-Homocystine is important for overall health and well-being. Elevated levels of DL-Homocystine have been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, as well as other health conditions such as cognitive impairment and certain types of cancer. Conversely, low levels of DL-Homocystine can impact energy levels and cognitive function.
Therefore, understanding the role of DL-Homocystine in the body and taking steps to regulate its levels through diet and supplementation can have a significant impact on maintaining optimal health and preventing disease in the long term.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
DL-Homocystine, a homocysteine derivative, has limited commercial and industrial applications due to its instability and potential toxicity. However, it is used in research settings as a substrate for enzymatic assays and in the production of standard reference materials.
In drug and medication applications, DL-Homocystine is not commonly used due to its potential toxicity and lack of therapeutic benefits. It is not found in any commonly prescribed medications or over-the-counter supplements. Research on its potential use in the treatment of certain medical conditions is ongoing but has not yet led to any widely available pharmaceutical products.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
In its pure form, DL-Homocystine appears as a white crystalline solid with no distinct odor. This compound is typically obtained as a racemic mixture of its D- and L-enantiomers.
The molar mass of DL-Homocystine is approximately 286.3 g/mol, and its density is around 1.54 g/cm³. Compared to common household items, DL-Homocystine has a higher molar mass and density than water (18.015 g/mol, 1.00 g/cm³) and lower than table salt (58.44 g/mol, 2.16 g/cm³).
DL-Homocystine has a melting point of around 310°C and a boiling point of approximately 965°C. These values are significantly higher than those of water (0°C, 100°C) and lower than those of iron (1538°C, 2861°C).
DL-Homocystine is sparingly soluble in water, with a solubility of around 0.34 g/100 mL at 25°C. It is a relatively viscous compound, comparable to corn syrup in terms of viscosity. Compared to common household items, DL-Homocystine has lower solubility in water than sugar (approximately 2000 g/100 mL at 25°C) and higher viscosity than water.
🏭 Production & Procurement
DL-Homocystine is produced through a chemical synthesis process involving the reaction of homocysteine with hydrogen peroxide. This reaction produces DL-Homocystine as a white crystalline powder. The process is typically carried out in a laboratory setting under controlled conditions to ensure the purity of the final product.
DL-Homocystine can be procured from specialized chemical suppliers that offer a range of biochemicals for research purposes. These suppliers typically provide DL-Homocystine in various quantities, from small research-scale amounts to bulk orders for industrial applications. The compound is usually packaged in sealed containers to maintain its integrity during transportation.
Once procured, DL-Homocystine can be transported using standard chemical handling procedures. The compound is typically shipped in compliance with regulatory guidelines for the transportation of hazardous materials. It may be packed and labeled according to international standards to ensure safe and secure transit to its destination.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for DL-Homocystine should be taken seriously due to its potential hazards. DL-Homocystine is a compound that may pose risks to human health if not handled properly. It is important to follow proper safety protocols when working with DL-Homocystine to avoid any potential accidents or exposure.
DL-Homocystine’s pharmacology involves its ability to inhibit the enzyme cystathionine beta-synthase, which can lead to an accumulation of homocysteine in the body. This can result in various health issues such as cardiovascular diseases, neurological disorders, and developmental abnormalities. Understanding the pharmacological effects of DL-Homocystine is crucial in assessing its potential risks and benefits for therapeutic use.
Hazard statements for DL-Homocystine include its potential to cause skin and eye irritation upon contact. Ingestion or inhalation of DL-Homocystine may lead to harmful effects on internal organs such as the kidneys and liver. It is essential to handle DL-Homocystine with care and to use appropriate personal protective equipment to minimize the risk of exposure.
Precautionary statements for DL-Homocystine recommend storing the compound in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from incompatible materials. It is important to avoid direct contact with DL-Homocystine and to use protective gloves and safety glasses when handling the substance. In case of accidental exposure, it is advised to seek medical attention immediately and to provide relevant information about the compound to healthcare professionals for proper treatment.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
DL-Homocystine, a dimer of homocysteine, has been implicated in various pathologies related to homocysteine metabolism. Future research may focus on unraveling the mechanistic underpinnings of how DL-Homocystine contributes to cardiovascular diseases and neurological disorders.
Exploring the potential therapeutic interventions to mitigate the harmful effects of elevated DL-Homocystine levels could be a critical research direction. Additionally, investigating the genetic and environmental factors that influence DL-Homocystine metabolism may offer insights into personalized medicine approaches for individuals at risk for homocysteine-related conditions.
Studies examining the role of DL-Homocystine in oxidative stress and inflammation pathways could provide further understanding of its pathological significance. Furthermore, exploring the crosstalk between DL-Homocystine and other metabolites in the one-carbon metabolism pathway may unveil new avenues for targeted interventions to modulate homocysteine levels and mitigate associated health risks.
🧪 Related Compounds
DL-Homocystine is a disulfide-linked homocysteine dimer with a molecular formula of C8H16N2O4S2. This compound can be related to other disulfide-containing compounds, such as cystine and homocysteine. Cystine, also known as L-cystine, is a dimeric amino acid formed by linking two cysteine molecules with a disulfide bond. Like DL-Homocystine, cystine plays a crucial role in protein structure and function, contributing to the stability of collagen, keratin, and elastin.
Homocysteine, on the other hand, is a sulfur-containing amino acid that can also form disulfide-linked dimers. Apart from DL-Homocystine, homocysteine can form homocystine, a homodimer connected by a disulfide bond. This compound is involved in methionine metabolism and its elevated levels are associated with cardiovascular diseases and cognitive impairment. The structural similarity between DL-Homocystine and homocystine highlights their common biochemical pathways and functional implications in cellular processes.
