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Cysteine

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Identification
Molecular formula
C3H7NO2S
CAS number
52-90-4
IUPAC name
2-amino-4-sulfanyl-butanoic acid
State
State

At room temperature, cysteine is a solid, white crystalline substance.

Melting point (Celsius)
240.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
513.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
240.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
513.15
General information
Molecular weight
121.16g/mol
Molar mass
121.1580g/mol
Density
1.8580g/cm3
Appearence

Cysteine crystals appear as white, solid crystalline structures.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 2-amino-4-sulfanyl-butanoic acid (C3H7NO2S)

2-amino-4-sulfanyl-butanoic acid, commonly known as cysteine, is an intriguing compound when it comes to its solubility properties. As a polar molecule with both an amino group and a thiol group, its solubility in various solvents can be quite favorable. Here are some key points about its solubility:

  • Water Solubility: Cysteine is highly soluble in water, largely owing to its ability to form hydrogen bonds. This polar characteristic enables it to readily dissociate and interact in aqueous environments.
  • Solvent Interactions: In addition to water, cysteine exhibits good solubility in various polar organic solvents such as ethanol and methanol. However, it has limited solubility in non-polar solvents.
  • pH Dependence: The solubility of cysteine can be influenced by the pH of the solution. At lower pH, cysteine exists in its protonated form, which enhances solubility, while at higher pH levels it can form less soluble species.

This unique solubility behavior not only emphasizes the versatility of cysteine as a biochemical compound but also plays a crucial role in its function in biological systems. As a reminder, the solubility of cysteine can significantly affect its availability and reactivity in various biochemical processes.

Interesting facts

Exploring 2-Amino-4-sulfanyl-butanoic Acid

2-Amino-4-sulfanyl-butanoic acid, often referred to as cysteine in biological contexts, is an intriguing compound that plays a vital role in various biochemical processes. Here are some fascinating facts about this amino acid:

  • Essential for Protein Structure: Cysteine contains a thiol group (-SH) that allows for the formation of disulfide bonds. These bonds are crucial for stabilizing the three-dimensional structure of proteins, influencing their functionality and activity.
  • Antioxidant Properties: Cysteine is a precursor to glutathione, one of the body's most potent antioxidants. This makes it essential for protecting cells from oxidative stress and maintaining overall cellular health.
  • Role in Metabolism: Cysteine is involved in the metabolism of sulfur-containing amino acids and is important for the synthesis of coenzymes, which are critical for countless metabolic processes.
  • Behavior in the Body: It can exist in both reduced and oxidized forms, allowing it to participate in redox reactions, a unique feature that enhances its role in cellular signaling and metabolic pathways.
  • Dietary Sources: Natural sources of cysteine include high-protein foods such as poultry, yogurt, and legumes, making it accessible to those with a balanced diet.

In conclusion, 2-amino-4-sulfanyl-butanoic acid is not just a simple amino acid; its multifunctional properties make it a *critical player* in the realm of biochemistry. Understanding its functions can deepen our appreciation for the complexity of biochemical networks in living organisms.

Synonyms
DL-Homocysteine
454-29-5
2-Amino-4-mercaptobutanoic acid
2-Amino-4-mercaptobutyric acid
2-amino-4-sulfanylbutanoic acid
D,L-Homocysteine
Homocysteine, dl-
(+-)-Homocysteine
USAF B-12
(+/-)-Homocysteine
Butyric acid, 2-amino-4-mercapto-, DL-
DL-2-Amino-4-mercaptobutyric acid
DL-Homocysteine, 90%
S7IJP4A89K
DL-Homocysteine (free base)
DL-Homocysteine, 90per cent
454-28-4
CHEBI:17230
NSC-206252
EINECS 207-222-9
UNII-S7IJP4A89K
NSC 206252
BRN 5493225
Butanoic acid, 2-amino-4-mercapto-
Homocysteine #
MFCD00004898
bmse000430
Butyric acid, 2-amino-4-mercapto-, DL- (9CI)
SCHEMBL35836
CHEMBL310604
BDBM86202
CAS_778
DTXSID70859946
NSC_778
HOMOCYSTEINE DL-FORM [MI]
NSC43117
DL-Homocysteine, analytical standard
NSC118376
NSC206252
s2994
XH1557
AKOS009156824
DL-Homocysteine, >=95% (titration)
CS-W021561
FH38656
HY-W040821
AS-56604
SY026382
DB-020435
DB-050655
H0159
NS00014832
EN300-49129
C05330
D90809
Q192466
1C51025E-77A8-4D48-8DC1-692A15D7F9D4