Myristelaidic acid, a type of fatty acid found in certain foods such as dairy products and meats, plays a crucial role in human nutrition. Despite its relatively low prevalence compared to other fatty acids, Myristelaidic acid has been linked to various health benefits, including reduced inflammation and improved heart health. Thus, an understanding of Myristelaidic acid and its effects on the human body is pertinent for individuals seeking to maintain a balanced and healthy diet.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
Myristelaidic acid, also known as 9(Z)-Tetradecenoic acid, is a fatty acid commonly found in various food sources such as dairy products and meats. Its commercial and industrial applications include its use in the production of cosmetics, specifically as an ingredient in skin creams and lotions due to its moisturizing properties.
In addition to its commercial and industrial applications, Myristelaidic acid also has important drug and medication applications. It has been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory properties, making it a candidate for the development of new pharmaceutical drugs to treat inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. Furthermore, research has shown that Myristelaidic acid may have potential in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases due to its ability to lower cholesterol levels in the bloodstream.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
Myristelaidic acid is a white, crystalline solid with no distinct odor. It is a fatty acid commonly found in dairy products and animal fats. The compound is primarily used in the production of margarine.
With a molar mass of approximately 310 g/mol and a density of 0.92 g/cm³, myristelaidic acid is lighter than common food items such as butter (molar mass 282.5 g/mol, density 0.911 g/cm³) and olive oil (molar mass 882 g/mol, density 0.91 g/cm³). This makes myristelaidic acid less dense compared to these food items.
Myristelaidic acid has a melting point range of 25-30°C and a boiling point range of 280-290°C. These values are higher than common food items such as coconut oil (melting point around 24°C, boiling point around 177°C) and soybean oil (melting point around -18°C, boiling point around 300°C). This indicates that myristelaidic acid has higher melting and boiling points compared to these food items.
Myristelaidic acid is sparingly soluble in water and has a high viscosity. This is in contrast to common food items like sugar (high solubility in water) and water (low viscosity). The compound’s properties make it less soluble in water and more viscous compared to these food items.
🏭 Production & Procurement
Myristelaidic acid, also known as 9-tetradecenoic acid, is primarily produced through the process of partial hydrogenation of myristic acid. This chemical reaction involves the introduction of hydrogen atoms into the fatty acid chain, resulting in the conversion of myristic acid to myristelaidic acid.
Once produced, Myristelaidic acid can be procured from chemical manufacturers or suppliers specializing in fatty acids and related compounds. The acid can be transported in its solid form, typically as a white crystalline powder, in sealed containers to prevent contamination and degradation during transit.
In order to ensure the purity and quality of Myristelaidic acid, it is essential to source the compound from reputable suppliers with a track record of producing high-grade fatty acids. Moreover, proper handling and storage procedures should be followed to maintain the integrity of the acid before it is used in various industrial applications.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for Myristelaidic acid should be approached with caution due to its potential hazards. It is important to handle this substance with care, as it may cause skin and eye irritation upon contact. Proper protective equipment, such as gloves and goggles, should be worn when working with Myristelaidic acid to minimize the risk of exposure.
Furthermore, Myristelaidic acid should be stored in a cool, dry place away from heat sources and incompatible materials. Proper ventilation should be maintained in areas where this substance is used to prevent the build-up of vapors. In the event of a spill, it is important to clean it up immediately and dispose of it properly according to local regulations to prevent contamination and harm to the environment.
In summary, hazard statements for Myristelaidic acid include the potential for skin and eye irritation upon contact. It is crucial to handle this substance with care to avoid adverse effects on health. Protective equipment should be worn when working with Myristelaidic acid to minimize the risk of exposure and harm.
Precautionary statements for Myristelaidic acid include the need to wear appropriate protective equipment, such as gloves and goggles, when handling this substance. It is important to store Myristelaidic acid in a cool, dry place away from sources of heat and incompatible materials. Proper ventilation should be maintained in areas where this substance is used to prevent the build-up of vapors that may be harmful to health. In the event of a spill, it is crucial to clean it up immediately and dispose of it properly according to local regulations to prevent harm to both human health and the environment.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
Myristelaidic acid, a monounsaturated trans-fatty acid present in relatively low quantities in human tissues and food sources, warrants further investigation into its potential health implications. Research could explore the effects of myristelaidic acid on metabolic processes, such as lipid metabolism and insulin sensitivity, to better understand its role in the development of diseases like obesity and diabetes.
In addition, studying the impact of myristelaidic acid on inflammatory pathways and oxidative stress may provide insights into its potential contribution to chronic inflammatory conditions and cardiovascular diseases. By elucidating the mechanisms through which myristelaidic acid influences these processes, researchers can determine the extent of its involvement in disease pathogenesis.
Furthermore, exploring the pharmacokinetics of myristelaidic acid, including its absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion in the body, could aid in developing strategies to modulate its levels for therapeutic purposes. Investigating the interaction of myristelaidic acid with other dietary components or medications may also reveal potential drug-nutrient interactions that could impact health outcomes.
🧪 Related Compounds
Analogous to Myristelaidic acid, another compound exhibitng similar structure is Elaidic acid. Elaidic acid, also known as trans-9-octadecenoic acid, is an unsaturated fatty acid with 18 carbon atoms and one double bond at the ninth carbon-carbon position.
Moreover, a comparable compound to Myristelaidic acid is Oleic acid. Oleic acid, also referred to as cis-9-octadecenoic acid, is a monounsaturated omega-9 fatty acid with 18 carbon atoms and one double bond located at the ninth carbon-carbon position.
Additionally, a structurally akin compound to Myristelaidic acid is Linoleic acid. Linoleic acid, classified as an omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid, is comprised of 18 carbon atoms and possesses two double bonds situated at the ninth and twelfth carbon-carbon positions.
