Theophylline

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Identification

Molecular formula
C7H8N4O2
CAS Number
58-55-9
IUPAC Name
7-(2,3-dihydroxypropyl)-1,3-dimethyl-purine-2,6-dione
Molecular Weight
180.16g/mol
Melting Point
(Celsius)
Boiling Point
(Celsius)
Density
1.3350g/cm3
Synonyms
dyphylline
Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 7-(2,3-dihydroxypropyl)-1,3-dimethyl-purine-2,6-dione

7-(2,3-dihydroxypropyl)-1,3-dimethyl-purine-2,6-dione, commonly referred to in scientific literature for its role in biochemistry, is a fascinating compound with several noteworthy characteristics:

  • Biological Significance: This compound is an important derivative of purines, which are vital components of nucleic acids. They play crucial roles in cellular processes, including DNA and RNA synthesis.
  • Metabolite Relation: Often seen as a metabolite of caffeine, this compound may impact various biochemical pathways within the body, highlighting its relevance in nutritional studies.
  • Potential Therapeutic Uses: Due to its structural similarity to known purine analogs, researchers are investigating this compound's potential in therapeutic applications, especially in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders.

Chemical Structure Insights

The structure of 7-(2,3-dihydroxypropyl)-1,3-dimethyl-purine-2,6-dione showcases an interesting arrangement of functional groups that contributes to its biochemical behavior. Key features include:

  • Hydroxyl Groups: The presence of hydroxy groups in the dihydroxypropyl chain enhances the compound's reactivity and solubility.
  • Methyl Groups: The 1,3-dimethyl substitutions may influence the compound's interactions within biological systems, potentially affecting binding affinity at various receptors.

Research Applications

Ongoing studies are focusing on:

  • Investigating the role of this compound in energy metabolism.
  • Exploring its effects on neurotransmitter systems in the brain.
  • Understanding its interactions at a molecular level, which may lead to the discovery of new drug targets.

In conclusion, 7-(2,3-dihydroxypropyl)-1,3-dimethyl-purine-2,6-dione serves as a brilliant example of how a compound can bridge the gap between organic chemistry and critical biological functions. The exploration of its properties continues to inspire new avenues of research in the scientific community.

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