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Methotrexate

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Identification
Molecular formula
C20H22N8O5
CAS number
59-05-2
IUPAC name
2-[[4-[(2-amino-4-oxo-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-1H-pteridin-6-yl)methylamino]benzoyl]amino]pentanedioic acid
State
State

At room temperature, methotrexate is typically found in a solid state. It is usually distributed and administered in the form of tablets or as a reconstituted solution for injection.

Melting point (Celsius)
195.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
468.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
0.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
0.00
General information
Molecular weight
454.44g/mol
Molar mass
454.4400g/mol
Density
1.0600g/cm3
Appearence

Methotrexate generally appears as a yellow to orange crystalline powder. It is a weakly acidic substance and is usually available in its solid form.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 2-[[4-[(2-amino-4-oxo-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-1H-pteridin-6-yl)methylamino]benzoyl]amino]pentanedioic acid

The solubility of the compound with the chemical formula C20H22N8O5 can be quite intriguing due to its complex structure. This compound is characterized by multiple functional groups which can influence its interaction with solvents.

Key Factors Affecting Solubility:

  • Polarity: The presence of amino and carboxylic acid groups implies that this compound tends to have a polar character, which generally enhances solubility in polar solvents like water.
  • Hydrogen Bonding: The ability to form hydrogen bonds allows this compound to interact favorably with solvent molecules, potentially increasing its solubility.
  • pH Dependency: The solubility of this compound may vary with changes in pH, especially due to the carboxylic acid functional groups that can ionize.

In practical terms, one might observe:

  • High solubility in aqueous solutions, particularly at lower pH levels.
  • Lower solubility in non-polar organic solvents, as the hydrophobic portions are less able to interact with such solvents.

In summary, understanding the solubility properties of this compound is crucial for its application in various fields, from pharmaceuticals to biochemistry, where solvent interactions play a key role in functionality.

Interesting facts

2-[[4-[(2-amino-4-oxo-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-1H-pteridin-6-yl)methylamino]benzoyl]amino]pentanedioic acid

This compound, known for its complex structure, belongs to a class of molecules that play significant roles in medicinal chemistry and biochemistry. Here are some compelling facts about it:

  • Pharmacological Potential: The intricate structure, which includes a pteridin moiety, suggests potential applications in pharmaceuticals. Pteridines are often involved in various biological functions, including those linked to enzymes and co-factors.
  • Structural Complexity: With multiple functional groups, this compound exhibits higher reactivity and can participate in a variety of biochemical interactions, which is essential in drug design.
  • Amino Acid Analog: The presence of the amino and carboxylic acid groups points to its possible functions as an amino acid analog, contributing to processes like protein synthesis or influencing neurotransmission.
  • Role in Metabolism: Compounds with similar structures can often serve as substrates for metabolic pathways, raising interest in their use as enzyme inhibitors or substrates in biochemical assays.
  • Research Utility: This compound can be utilized in research settings as a tool to study the biological roles of pteridines, especially in relation to folate metabolism and its impact on cellular processes.

The compound’s relative structural intricacy reveals the sophisticated nature of chemical interactions within biological systems. As noted by a leading chemist, “Understanding the detailed architecture of such compounds is crucial for harnessing their full potential in drug discovery.” This belief underscores the importance of compounds like this one in the future of medicinal chemistry and metabolic research.