Adenosine triphosphate (ATP)
- Molecular formula
- C10H16N5O13P3
- CAS Number
- 56-65-5
- IUPAC Name
- [2-(6-aminopurin-9-yl)-4-[3-hydroxy-6-(hydroxymethyl)-4,5-diphosphonooxy-tetrahydropyran-2-yl]oxy-5-(hydroxymethyl)tetrahydrofuran-3-yl] dihydrogen phosphate
- Molecular Weight
- 507.18g/mol
- Melting Point
- (Celsius)
- Boiling Point
- (Celsius)
- Density
- 1.5000g/cm3
- Appearance
- may vary when hydrated or in solution with water molecules attached.
Identification
Exploring 2-(6-aminopurin-9-yl)-4-[3-hydroxy-6-(hydroxymethyl)-4,5-diphosphonooxy-tetrahydropyran-2-yl]oxy-5-(hydroxymethyl)tetrahydrofuran-3-yl dihydrogen phosphate
This compound is a fascinating example of a complex organic molecule that plays a crucial role in various biochemical processes. As a dihydrogen phosphate derivative, it is intrinsically linked to the realm of nucleotides and nucleic acids, underscoring its importance in genetics and molecular biology.
Key Features
- Biological Importance: This compound is structurally related to purines and nucleotides, which are vital for cellular functions such as energy transfer, signaling, and the synthesis of DNA & RNA.
- Phosphate Group: The presence of the phosphate group in the structure is critical, as it participates in energy metabolism and is a key component of ATP (adenosine triphosphate).
- Hydroxymethyl Groups: The inclusion of hydroxymethyl groups enhances the compound's reactivity and potential for forming hydrogen bonds, crucial for interactions at the molecular level.
Moreover, one cannot ignore the intricate architecture of the compound, with its combination of tetrahydrofuran and tetrahydropyran rings, resulting in both stability and flexibility that could influence its interactions in biological systems. As noted by many researchers, "the relationship between structure and function in biomolecules is fundamental to understanding life at the molecular level."
Furthermore, compounds like this are vital in the medicinal chemistry field, serving as potential pharmacophores in drug design. Their unique configurations could lead to the development of novel therapeutics targeting specific biological pathways.
In summary, the compound exemplifies the beauty and complexity of chemical structures that not only expand our understanding of chemistry but also enhance our exploration of life sciences.