N-Methyl-L-alanine is a naturally occurring amino acid that plays a crucial role in protein synthesis within the human body. While this compound may not have direct applications in everyday life for the average individual, its significance lies in its contribution to the overall functioning and health of the body. Understanding the role of N-Methyl-L-alanine in biological processes helps to shed light on the complexities of human physiology and the importance of maintaining a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
N-Methyl-L-alanine, a derivative of the amino acid alanine, has found various commercial and industrial applications. It is often utilized as a building block in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and specialty chemicals due to its unique chemical properties. Additionally, N-Methyl-L-alanine is used in the production of certain flavors and fragrances, serving as a key ingredient in the creation of specific scents and tastes.
In the realm of drug and medication applications, N-Methyl-L-alanine plays a crucial role in the development of pharmaceutical products. It is commonly employed in the synthesis of certain drugs due to its ability to enhance drug efficacy and bioavailability. Furthermore, N-Methyl-L-alanine is utilized in the formulation of medications for neurological disorders and other medical conditions, demonstrating its importance in the pharmaceutical industry for therapeutic purposes.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
N-Methyl-L-alanine is a white crystalline solid with no distinct odor. It is commonly found in research laboratories and is not widely used in food products.
The molar mass of N-Methyl-L-alanine is approximately 101.1 g/mol, and its density is around 1.07 g/cm3. In comparison to common food items like sugar (molar mass of 342.3 g/mol, density of 1.59 g/cm3) and salt (molar mass of 58.4 g/mol, density of 2.17 g/cm3), N-Methyl-L-alanine has a lower molar mass and density.
N-Methyl-L-alanine has a melting point of around 130-135°C and a boiling point of approximately 315-320°C. These values are higher than those of common food items like butter (melting point of 32-35°C, boiling point of 160-170°C) and water (melting point of 0°C, boiling point of 100°C).
N-Methyl-L-alanine is sparingly soluble in water and has a low viscosity. Compared to common food items like sugar which is highly soluble and has a high viscosity, N-Methyl-L-alanine exhibits lower solubility and viscosity in water.
🏭 Production & Procurement
N-Methyl-L-alanine is typically produced through chemical synthesis in a laboratory setting. The process involves the reaction of L-alanine with methylating agents to replace a hydrogen atom with a methyl group, resulting in the formation of the N-Methyl-L-alanine molecule. This process is carried out under controlled conditions to ensure purity and consistency of the final product.
N-Methyl-L-alanine can be procured from specialized chemical suppliers who produce and distribute various amino acid derivatives for research and industrial applications. The compound is typically available in a powdered form, packaged in sealed containers to prevent degradation. For transportation, N-Methyl-L-alanine is handled and shipped following strict safety regulations to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
When procuring N-Methyl-L-alanine, it is essential to consider factors such as purity, quality, and the supplier’s reputation. Buyers should verify the integrity of the product by requesting certificates of analysis and ensuring that the compound meets their specific requirements. It is recommended to work with reputable suppliers with a proven track record in providing high-quality amino acid derivatives for research and commercial use.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for N-Methyl-L-alanine should be carefully observed due to its potential hazards. This compound can pose dangers to human health if not handled properly. It is important to strictly adhere to safety guidelines when working with N-Methyl-L-alanine to prevent accidents and exposure to its harmful effects.
Hazard statements for N-Methyl-L-alanine include “Toxic if swallowed,” “Causes severe skin burns and eye damage,” and “May cause respiratory irritation.” These statements highlight the potential risks associated with this compound and emphasize the importance of taking precautions to avoid exposure. Individuals must be cautious when handling N-Methyl-L-alanine to prevent harm to themselves and others.
Precautionary statements for N-Methyl-L-alanine include “Wear protective gloves/eye protection/face protection” and “In case of contact with skin, rinse immediately with plenty of water.” These statements underscore the necessary safety measures that should be taken to minimize risks when working with this compound. It is essential to follow these precautions to ensure the safety of individuals handling N-Methyl-L-alanine and to prevent accidents or injuries.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for N-Methyl-L-alanine involves studying its effects on neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease, due to its reported neuroprotective properties.
Researchers may also explore the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of N-Methyl-L-alanine to better understand its absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion in the body, as well as its mechanisms of action.
Furthermore, investigations into the potential therapeutic applications of N-Methyl-L-alanine in treating other conditions, such as cancer or metabolic disorders, could provide valuable insights into its efficacy and safety profile.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to N-Methyl-L-alanine based on molecular structure is N-Ethyl-L-alanine. In this compound, the methyl group in N-Methyl-L-alanine is replaced with an ethyl group. This change results in a larger alkyl group attached to the alpha carbon of alanine, leading to differences in properties such as solubility and reactivity.
Another similar compound to N-Methyl-L-alanine is N-Isopropyl-L-alanine. In this compound, the methyl group in N-Methyl-L-alanine is replaced with an isopropyl group. This change introduces sterical hindrance due to the bulkier isopropyl group, affecting the molecule’s conformation and interactions with other molecules in a biological system.
One more similar compound to N-Methyl-L-alanine is N-Benzyl-L-alanine. In this compound, the methyl group in N-Methyl-L-alanine is replaced with a benzyl group. The presence of the benzyl group introduces aromaticity to the molecule, potentially altering its chemical properties and interactions in a physiological setting.
