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Cortisol

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Identification
Molecular formula
C21H30O5
CAS number
50-23-7
IUPAC name
11,17-dihydroxy-17-(2-hydroxyacetyl)-10,13-dimethyl-7,8,9,11,12,14,15,16-octahydro-6H-cyclopenta[a]phenanthren-3-one
State
State

At room temperature, cortisol is a solid. It is isolated as a crystalline powder and is typically handled as such in laboratory settings.

Melting point (Celsius)
210.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
483.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
561.15
Boiling point (Kelvin)
834.30
General information
Molecular weight
362.46g/mol
Molar mass
362.4600g/mol
Density
1.1300g/cm3
Appearence

Cortisol is typically a white to off-white crystalline powder. It is odorless and has a bitter taste. As a hormone, it is most often discussed in its biological context, as it occurs naturally in the body. However, in its pure form, it is isolated as a solid.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 11,17-dihydroxy-17-(2-hydroxyacetyl)-10,13-dimethyl-7,8,9,11,12,14,15,16-octahydro-6H-cyclopenta[a]phenanthren-3-one (C21H30O5)

The solubility of 11,17-dihydroxy-17-(2-hydroxyacetyl)-10,13-dimethyl-7,8,9,11,12,14,15,16-octahydro-6H-cyclopenta[a]phenanthren-3-one is an intriguing aspect of this compound's properties. Understanding its solubility can lead to insights regarding its potential applications and behavior in different environments. Here are some noteworthy points regarding its solubility:

  • Polar and Non-polar Characteristics: Due to the presence of hydroxyl (-OH) groups, this compound exhibits some degree of polarity, which can enhance its solubility in polar solvents like water and alcohols.
  • Hydrocarbon Structure: The hydrophobic components of the cyclopenta[a]phenanthrene backbone suggest that the compound may also show lower solubility in non-polar solvents, aligning it more with organic solvents.
  • Solvent Interactions: The solubility may be influenced by the nature of the solvent; for instance, solubility in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or methanol may be higher compared to hydrocarbons.
  • Temperature Influences: As with many organic compounds, solubility can increase with temperature, which could enhance interactions between the solvent and solute.

In conclusion, the solubility of C21H30O5 reflects a balance between its polar and non-polar characteristics. As always, experimental determination is essential for precise solubility values, as theoretical predictions may not encompass all environmental factors.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 11,17-dihydroxy-17-(2-hydroxyacetyl)-10,13-dimethyl-7,8,9,11,12,14,15,16-octahydro-6H-cyclopenta[a]phenanthren-3-one

This compound, with its intricate structure, belongs to a category of steroids which are organic compounds that play vital roles in biological processes. Here are some fascinating facts:

  • Biological Significance: This compound is related to steroid hormones that perform essential functions in the human body, including regulation of metabolism, immune response, and development of sexual characteristics.
  • Natural Origins: It may be derived from natural sources, including various plants and animals, making it of significant interest for pharmacological studies.
  • Potential Therapeutic Uses: Research is being conducted to explore its potential uses in treating conditions such as inflammation and hormonal imbalances.
  • Synthetic Pathways: The complexity of its structure means that synthesizing this compound in the lab poses unique challenges and opportunities for organic chemists.
  • Structure-Activity Relationship (SAR): The presence of hydroxyl groups (-OH) and the acetyl group can dramatically influence the biological activity of the compound and its interactions with receptors.

As a chemical scientist or chemistry student studying this compound, one might find the balance between structure and function particularly intriguing. The quote, "Structure dictates function," resonates well with the investigation of such steroid derivatives, as even slight changes in the chemical structure can lead to distinct biological effects.

This compound exemplifies the rich intersection of chemistry and biology, encouraging ongoing exploration and discovery.

Synonyms
11,17,21-Trihydroxypregna-1,4-diene-3,20-dione
Epiprednisolone
307518-72-5
11,17-dihydroxy-17-(2-hydroxyacetyl)-10,13-dimethyl-7,8,9,11,12,14,15,16-octahydro-6H-cyclopenta[a]phenanthren-3-one
1-Dehydrocortisol
MLS002638110
52438-85-4
SCHEMBL4449434
CHEMBL1735158
pregna-1,4-diene-3,20-dione, 11,17,21-trihydroxy-
CHEBI:181020
HMS2232P15
HMS3371N11
ALBB-025807
BBL005698
MFCD00267363
STK177313
AKOS001650095
AKOS017258740
FS-4850
SMR001317863
UNM000000588601
EN300-295956
1,10-dihydroxy-1-(2-hydroxyacetyl)-9a,11a-dimethyl-1H,2H,3H,3aH,3bH,4H,5H,7H,9aH,9bH,10H,11H,11aH-cyclopenta[a]phenanthren-7-one