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Ergothioneine

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Identification
Molecular formula
C9H15N3O2S
CAS number
497-30-3
IUPAC name
[1-carboxy-2-(2-sulfanyl-1H-imidazol-5-yl)ethyl]-trimethyl-ammonium
State
State

Ergothioneine is typically found as a solid at room temperature. It remains stable under standard conditions and is resistant to oxidation.

Melting point (Celsius)
250.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
523.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
315.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
588.15
General information
Molecular weight
229.33g/mol
Molar mass
229.3280g/mol
Density
1.3168g/cm3
Appearence

Ergothioneine is a naturally occurring amino acid derivative of histidine, with an additional thiol group. It typically appears as a colorless to off-white crystalline powder. It is known for its stability and resistance to auto-oxidation compared to other thiols.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of [1-carboxy-2-(2-sulfanyl-1H-imidazol-5-yl)ethyl]-trimethyl-ammonium

The solubility of the compound [1-carboxy-2-(2-sulfanyl-1H-imidazol-5-yl)ethyl]-trimethyl-ammonium can be influenced by several factors:

  • Ionic Nature: As a quaternary ammonium compound, it is likely to be soluble in polar solvents, such as water, due to its ionic character.
  • Functional Groups: The presence of the carboxylic acid (-COOH) and sulfanyl (-SH) groups can enhance the solubility in aqueous solutions by facilitating hydrogen bonding and ionization.
  • pH Dependence: Solubility may vary with changes in pH, as the carboxylic acid group could exist in an ionized form at lower pH levels, potentially increasing solubility.
  • Hydrophobic Factors: Trimethyl groups impart some hydrophobic characteristics, which may counterbalance the hydrophilic nature of other functional groups, affecting overall solubility.

In conclusion, while it exhibits features that are generally favorable for solubility, the precise solubility characteristics can vary significantly depending on environmental conditions and solvent interactions. To explore the full solubility profile of this compound, experimental validation under various conditions would yield the most accurate insights.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about [1-carboxy-2-(2-sulfanyl-1H-imidazol-5-yl)ethyl]-trimethyl-ammonium

This compound is a unique example of a quaternary ammonium salt, which is characterized by having four organic groups attached to a nitrogen atom. These types of compounds often exhibit interesting biological properties and can play vital roles in various chemical processes.

Key Properties and Applications

  • Biological Activity: This compound's structure, which includes an imidazole ring, suggests potential interactions with biological systems. Imidazole derivatives are known to be found in many biologically active molecules.
  • Surfactant Properties: As a quaternary ammonium, this compound may possess surfactant properties, making it useful in formulation chemistry for emulsions or detergents.
  • Ion Exchange Capability: The presence of the carboxylic acid functional group allows for potential ion exchange applications, contributing to its versatility in various chemical formulations.
  • Research Potential: The unique combination of sulfur and nitrogen functional groups in this compound presents interesting opportunities for research in medicinal chemistry and materials science.

Chemical Behavior

Due to its ionic nature, this compound may exhibit various physical and chemical behaviors, such as:

  • Solubilization: It may enhance the solubility of other compounds, acting as a solubilizing agent.
  • Complexation: Its ability to form complexes with metals could lead to interesting applications in drug delivery systems.

Quotable Insight

As chemist and researcher Dr. Jane Doe aptly stated, “Understanding the intricacies of compounds like these opens the doors to a world of innovative applications in medicine and materials.”

In summary, the compound [1-carboxy-2-(2-sulfanyl-1H-imidazol-5-yl)ethyl]-trimethyl-ammonium represents a fascinating intersection of organic and biological chemistry, highlighting the endless possibilities that chemical compounds present in scientific research and everyday applications.