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Forskolin

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Identification
Molecular formula
C22H34O7
CAS number
66575-29-9
IUPAC name
(1S,6R,10S,11R,13S,14R,15R)-1,6,13,14-tetrahydroxy-8-(hydroxymethyl)-4,12,12,15-tetramethyl-tetracyclo[8.5.0.02,6.011,13]pentadeca-3,8-dien-5-one
State
State

At room temperature, forskolin is in a solid state, generally found as a crystalline powder.

Melting point (Celsius)
215.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
488.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
366.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
639.00
General information
Molecular weight
410.51g/mol
Molar mass
410.4940g/mol
Density
1.0001g/cm3
Appearence

Forskolin is typically found as a white to off-white crystalline powder. It may also appear slightly yellowish depending on purity and specific preparations.

Comment on solubility

Solubility Characteristics

The solubility of the compound (1S,6R,10S,11R,13S,14R,15R)-1,6,13,14-tetrahydroxy-8-(hydroxymethyl)-4,12,12,15-tetramethyl-tetracyclo[8.5.0.02,6.011,13]pentadeca-3,8-dien-5-one is a complex subject due to its intricate structure and multiple hydroxyl groups. Here are the key points regarding its solubility:

  • Hydrophilicity: The presence of hydroxyl (-OH) groups suggests that the compound has the potential to exhibit hydrophilic properties, enhancing its solubility in polar solvents such as water.
  • Hydrophobicity: Conversely, the presence of the tetracyclic structure and multiple methyl groups adds a considerable hydrophobic character, which may limit its solubility in aqueous solutions.
  • Solvent Selection: This compound is more likely to be soluble in organic solvents like ethanol, methanol, or acetone, where a balance between polar and non-polar interactions can be achieved.
  • Temperature Influence: Solubility may also be influenced by temperature; generally, increasing temperature may enhance the solubility of organic compounds.

Furthermore, "solubility" is often a relative measure, depending on various factors including concentration, temperature, and the presence of other solutes. It's critical to conduct empirical solubility tests to ascertain the practical solubility of this compound under specific conditions.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about (1S,6R,10S,11R,13S,14R,15R)-1,6,13,14-tetrahydroxy-8-(hydroxymethyl)-4,12,12,15-tetramethyl-tetracyclo[8.5.0.02,6.011,13]pentadeca-3,8-dien-5-one

This compound, with its intricate structure, belongs to a class of organic compounds known for their significant biological activity. Here are some fascinating characteristics that highlight its uniqueness:

  • Complexity: Its structure is a tetracyclic molecule, which poses intriguing challenges for chemists in both synthesis and analysis.
  • Natural Occurrence: Compounds of this type are often isolated from various natural sources, particularly from plants. They are known for their roles in ecological interactions.
  • Pharmacological Properties: Such compounds have shown potential in medicinal chemistry, often exhibiting antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities.
  • Importance in Synthesis: The multiple hydroxy groups provide sites for further chemical modification, making it a valuable substrate in organic synthesis.
  • Resource for Study: Due to its rich structural features, this compound serves as an excellent subject for educational purposes, allowing students to explore stereochemistry and reaction mechanisms.

Studying (1S,6R,10S,11R,13S,14R,15R)-1,6,13,14-tetrahydroxy-8-(hydroxymethyl)-4,12,12,15-tetramethyl-tetracyclo[8.5.0.02,6.011,13]pentadeca-3,8-dien-5-one not only sheds light on its properties but also opens the door to understanding more complex biochemical interactions in nature.

As one student aptly put it, "Exploring such complex molecules brings the art of chemistry to life!"