Hydrocortisone
- Molecular formula
- C21H30O5
- CAS Number
- 50-23-7
- IUPAC Name
- 2-hydroxy-1-[(3R,5R,8S,9S,10S,11S,13S,14S,17R)-3,11,17-trihydroxy-10,13-dimethyl-1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,11,12,14,15,16-tetradecahydrocyclopenta[a]phenanthren-17-yl]ethanone
- Molecular Weight
- 362.46g/mol
- Melting Point
- (Celsius)
- Boiling Point
- (Celsius)
- Density
- 1.2832g/cm3
- Synonyms
- TETRAHYDROCORTISOL
Identification
Interesting Facts About 2-hydroxy-1-[(3R,5R,8S,9S,10S,11S,13S,14S,17R)-3,11,17-trihydroxy-10,13-dimethyl-1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,11,12,14,15,16-tetradecahydrocyclopenta[a]phenanthren-17-yl]ethanone
This compound, often shortened for convenience, belongs to a fascinating class of molecules that play essential roles in biological systems. Here are some key aspects that stand out:
- Biological Significance: The compound is linked to important physiological functions, contributing to various biochemical pathways.
- Hormonal Analog: It is structurally related to steroid hormones, exhibiting potential in research related to hormonal activity and therapeutic applications.
- Synthetic Pathways: Understanding how to synthesize this compound can lead to insights into complex organic reactions, making it an excellent subject for students studying organic chemistry.
- Structure-Activity Relationships: The compound's structure is a prime example of how subtle changes in molecular geometry can result in significant variations in biological activity.
- Natural Sources: Compounds like this are often found in nature, particularly in plants and animal tissues, prompting interest in biochemistry and pharmacognosy.
Researching this compound opens doors to a broader understanding of steroid chemistry and its applications in fields such as medicine and pharmacology. As noted by leading chemists, "The study of such compounds is at the intersection of biology and chemistry, showcasing the profound connectivity of these disciplines."
With its rich structural complexity and potential biological implications, this compound serves not only as a fascinating chemical entity but also as a gateway to deeper scientific inquiries.