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Cysteine

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Identification
Molecular formula
C3H7NO2S
CAS number
52-90-4
IUPAC name
(2R)-2-amino-3-[(2S)-2-amino-2-carboxy-ethyl]sulfanyl-propanoic acid
State
State

At room temperature, cysteine is a solid. It is typically stable under normal conditions and is commonly used in its powdered form for various applications in both laboratory and supplementary contexts.

Melting point (Celsius)
240.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
513.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
260.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
533.15
General information
Molecular weight
121.16g/mol
Molar mass
121.1580g/mol
Density
1.7100g/cm3
Appearence

Cysteine typically appears as a white crystalline solid. The compound can sometimes be off-white in its powdered form. It is often found in its crystalline form in supplements and chemical research applications.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of (2R)-2-amino-3-[(2S)-2-amino-2-carboxy-ethyl]sulfanyl-propanoic acid

The solubility of (2R)-2-amino-3-[(2S)-2-amino-2-carboxy-ethyl]sulfanyl-propanoic acid, also known as a cysteine analog, is quite fascinating and nuanced. This compound, which features polar functional groups, demonstrates varying solubility in different solvents. Here are some important aspects regarding its solubility:

  • Water Solubility: The presence of amino and carboxyl functional groups typically enhances solubility in water, primarily due to hydrogen bonding capabilities.
  • Solvent Specificity: While it is soluble in aqueous solutions, it may exhibit limited solubility in organic solvents like hexane or chloroform, which do not interact favorably with polar compounds.
  • Concentration Dependency: In concentrated solutions, solubility may be influenced by ionic interactions, causing precipitation of the compound under certain conditions.
  • Temperature Effects: Higher temperatures generally increase solubility for many amino acids and their derivatives, allowing for more effective dissolving processes.

In summary, the solubility of (2R)-2-amino-3-[(2S)-2-amino-2-carboxy-ethyl]sulfanyl-propanoic acid is heavily influenced by its structural characteristics, the nature of the solvent, and environmental conditions such as temperature and concentration. As the saying goes, "Solubility is key to understanding chemical behavior!"

Interesting facts

Exploring the Fascinating World of (2R)-2-amino-3-[(2S)-2-amino-2-carboxy-ethyl]sulfanyl-propanoic acid

(2R)-2-amino-3-[(2S)-2-amino-2-carboxy-ethyl]sulfanyl-propanoic acid, commonly known as a derivative of cysteine, is an intriguing compound that plays a significant role in biochemistry and cellular processes. This compound is categorized as a non-essential amino acid and is a building block for proteins. Here are some fascinating aspects of this amino acid:

  • Role in Protein Structure: As a precursor to vital proteins, this compound aids in the formation of disulfide bonds which are crucial for maintaining protein structure.
  • Antioxidant Properties: Cysteine (and its derivatives) are known for their ability to scavenge free radicals, helping to protect cells from oxidative stress.
  • Importance in Metabolism: It contributes significantly to several metabolic pathways, being involved in the synthesis of glutathione, one of the body's most powerful antioxidants.
  • Biological Functions: Cysteine is involved in various biological functions such as detoxification, metabolism of carbohydrates, and modulation of neuroactive molecules.
  • Potential Therapeutic Uses: Research is being conducted on the therapeutic potential of cysteine derivatives in managing conditions like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's disease, and more due to their neuroprotective properties.

As you explore this compound more deeply, you may encounter the quote, "Understanding the biochemical roles of amino acids opens the door to innovative treatments in medicine," which perfectly encapsulates the relevance of (2R)-2-amino-3-[(2S)-2-amino-2-carboxy-ethyl]sulfanyl-propanoic acid in scientific research.

In conclusion, (2R)-2-amino-3-[(2S)-2-amino-2-carboxy-ethyl]sulfanyl-propanoic acid serves not only as a critical component in the protein synthesis process but also exhibits properties that suggest a wider application in health and medicine. Its multifaceted roles continue to intrigue scientists and make it a compound worthy of exploration.

Synonyms
MESO-LANTHIONINE
922-56-5
Lanthionine, meso-
Alanine, 3,3'-thiodi-, meso-
UNII-104T761S26
D-Cysteine, S-((2R)-2-amino-2-carboxyethyl)-
(2S*,6R*)-lanthionine
D-Cysteine, S-(2-amino-2-carboxyethyl)-, (R)-
3,3'-thiobis-meso-alanine
104T761S26
CHEBI:25205
LANTHIONINE MESO-FORM [MI]
(R,S)-bis(2-amino-2-carboxyethyl)sulfide
(R)-S-(2-amino-2-carboxyethyl)-D-cysteine
(R,S)-2,6-diamino-4-thiaheptanedioic acid
(2S,6R)-2,6-diamino-4-thiaheptanedioic acid
(R,S)-3,3'-thiobis-(2-aminopropanoic acid)
S-((2R)-2-amino-2-carboxyethyl)-D-cysteine
S-[(2S)-2-amino-2-carboxyethyl]-L-cysteine
(2R*,6S*)-2,6-diamino-4-thiaheptanedioic acid
(2S,2'R)-3,3'-sulfanediylbis(2-aminopropanoic acid)
(2R*,2'S*)-3,3'-sulfanediylbis(2-aminopropanoic acid)
S-((2S)-2-amino-2-carboxyethyl)-L-cysteine
Lanthionine, meso-[MI]
LANTHIONINE MESO-FORM
(2S,6R)-Lanthionine
L-Meso-lanthionine
(2R)-2-amino-3-[(2S)-2-amino-2-carboxyethyl]sulfanylpropanoic acid
Lanthionine, meso- [MI]
(s)-l-lanthionine
DTXSID601034305
Q27251108
(2R)-2-Amino-3-{[(2S)-2-amino-2-carboxyethyl]sulfanyl}propanoic acid