Deoxycholic acid

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Identification

Molecular formula
C24H40O4
CAS Number
83-44-3
IUPAC Name
4-(3,12-dihydroxy-10,13-dimethyl-7-oxo-1,2,3,4,5,6,8,9,11,12,14,15,16,17-tetradecahydrocyclopenta[a]phenanthren-17-yl)pentanoic acid
Molecular Weight
392.57g/mol
Melting Point
(Celsius)
Boiling Point
(Celsius)
Density
1.1600g/cm3
Synonyms
3, 12-Dihydroxy-7-oxocholan-24-oic acid
Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 4-(3,12-dihydroxy-10,13-dimethyl-7-oxo-1,2,3,4,5,6,8,9,11,12,14,15,16,17-tetradecahydrocyclopenta[a]phenanthren-17-yl)pentanoic acid

This compound is a fascinating example of how complex organic molecules can be. Known for its intricate structure, 4-(3,12-dihydroxy-10,13-dimethyl-7-oxo-1,2,3,4,5,6,8,9,11,12,14,15,16,17-tetradecahydrocyclopenta[a]phenanthren-17-yl)pentanoic acid is a member of a broader class of steroid-like compounds that exhibit significant biological activity. Here are some key highlights:

  • Structural Complexity: The structure contains multiple functional groups like hydroxyl (-OH) and carbonyl (C=O), making it a potential candidate for various chemical reactions in organic synthesis.
  • Biological Relevance: Compounds similar to this one have been studied for their roles in hormonal activity and their impact on human health, particularly in the context of metabolic processes.
  • Natural Occurrence: This compound, belonging to the steroid family, can be found in certain plants and may play a role in plant hormonal regulation, similar to how some steroids function in animals.
  • Research Applications: It has potential applications in pharmaceuticals, especially in developing drugs for conditions linked to hormonal imbalances.

As a student of chemistry, studying such complex structures not only hones your analytical skills but also invites you to explore the vast world of natural products and their potential applications. Understanding how different moieties within these compounds interact can lead to groundbreaking discoveries in medicinal chemistry and biochemistry. In the words of renowned chemist Linus Pauling, "The best way to have a good idea is to have a lot of ideas." This compound exemplifies the idea of how a single molecular structure can inspire a multitude of research avenues.

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