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Melphalan

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Identification
Molecular formula
C13H18Cl2N2O2
CAS number
148-82-3
IUPAC name
(2R)-2-amino-3-[4-[bis(2-chloroethyl)amino]phenyl]propanoic acid
State
State

Melphalan is a solid at room temperature. It is usually handled as a dry powder, often in a sealed vial, to be reconstituted into a liquid solution for administration. It is important to handle it with care, as it is a cytotoxic compound used for chemotherapy.

Melting point (Celsius)
182.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
455.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
320.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
593.15
General information
Molecular weight
305.20g/mol
Molar mass
305.2040g/mol
Density
1.3240g/cm3
Appearence

Melphalan typically appears as a white to light tan crystalline powder. It is often available in a lyophilized (freeze-dried) form for pharmaceutical use, particularly for intravenous administration. Exposure to light and air can cause it to degrade, so it is usually stored in airtight containers to maintain stability.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of (2R)-2-amino-3-[4-[bis(2-chloroethyl)amino]phenyl]propanoic acid

The solubility of (2R)-2-amino-3-[4-[bis(2-chloroethyl)amino]phenyl]propanoic acid can be influenced by several key factors related to its chemical structure.

  • Polarity: This compound has polar characteristics due to the presence of amino and carboxylic acid groups, which often leads to increased solubility in polar solvents such as water.
  • Hydrophobic Interactions: The bis(2-chloroethyl)amino group introduces hydrophobic characteristics, which can impair solubility in highly polar solvents.
  • pH Dependence: The solubility may also vary with pH, particularly due to the ionization of the carboxylic acid group, enhancing solubility in basic conditions.
  • Temperature Effects: Generally, increasing the temperature can enhance the solubility of many compounds, including amino acids, although the specific behavior can vary based on the structural components.

In summary, while the compound can be expected to have some degree of solubility in water due to its polar functional groups, the hydrophobic nature of the chlorinated ethyl side chains may reduce its overall solubility. Therefore, it is essential to consider these factors when predicting solubility in various solvents.

Interesting facts

Overview of (2R)-2-amino-3-[4-[bis(2-chloroethyl)amino]phenyl]propanoic Acid

(2R)-2-amino-3-[4-[bis(2-chloroethyl)amino]phenyl]propanoic acid, commonly known for its vital role in pharmacology, is a fascinating compound that intertwines medicinal chemistry with biological applications. This compound is a derivative of the amino acid leucine and exhibits a unique structure which contributes to its varied functions in drug development.

Interesting Facts

  • Clinical Significance: This compound is a key intermediate in the synthesis of potent anticancer agents, particularly in the realm of chemotherapy.
  • Mechanism of Action: The chlorine atoms in the side chain play a crucial role in its cytotoxic activity by initiating DNA cross-linking, thereby interfering with cancer cell proliferation.
  • Structure-Activity Relationship: The specific spatial configuration (denoted as (2R)) is vital for its efficacy, showing how stereochemistry influences biological activity.
  • Synthetic Pathways: Several synthetic approaches have been developed to produce this compound, allowing for the exploration of various analogs with enhanced therapeutic profiles.
  • Research Tool: Given its ability to selectively target cancer cells, researchers often utilize this compound as a tool in understanding cancer biology and testing new therapeutics.

This compound not only embodies the complexities of chemical synthesis but also serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against cancer. Its study contributes to the broader understanding of how we can leverage chemical compounds to improve healthcare outcomes.

Synonyms
13045-94-8
Medphalan
D-Melphalan
D-Sarcolysine
Sarcolysine, D-
Medfalan
D-Sarcolysin
D-Phenylalanine mustard
CB-3026
MELPHALAN, D-
MEDPHALAN [IARC]
NSC 35051
p-Di(2-chloroethyl)amino-d-phenylalanine
3026 C.B.
MELPHALAN D-FORM [MI]
(p-Di(2-chloroethyl)amino-D-phenyl)alanine
3026 C. B.
4-(Bis(2-chloroethyl)amino)-D-phenylalanine
94H892992X
DTXSID00893737
D-Phenylalanine, 4-(bis(2-chloroethyl)amino)-
D-Phenylalanine, 4-[bis(2-chloroethyl)amino]-
D-3-(p-(Bis(2-chloroethyl)amino)phenyl)alanine
(+)-3-(p-(Bis(2-chloroethyl)amino)phenyl)alanine
D-Alanine, 3-(p-(bis(2-chloroethyl)amino)phenyl)-
MEDPHALAN (IARC)
Alanine, 3-(p-(bis(2-chloroethyl)amino)phenyl)-, D-
MELPHALAN D-FORM
DTXCID301323761
D-Phenylalanine, 4-(bis(2-chloroethyl)amino)-(9CI)
(R)-2-amino-3-(4-(bis(2-chloroethyl)amino)phenyl)propanoic acid
(r)-melphalan
(2R)-2-amino-3-[4-[bis(2-chloroethyl)amino]phenyl]propanoic acid
(2R)-2-azaniumyl-3-[4-[bis(2-chloroethyl)amino]phenyl]propanoate
(2R)-2-amino-3-{4-[bis(2-chloroethyl)amino]phenyl}propanoic acid
NSC-35051
D-Melphalan-d8
UNII-94H892992X
4-[Bis(2-chloroethyl)amino]-D-phenylalanine; CB 3026; D-Melphalan; D-Phenylalanine Mustard; Medphalan; NSC 35051
Lopac-M-2011
SCHEMBL5873
CHEMBL250892
(R)-2-Amino-3-(4-(bis(2-chloroethyl)amino)phenyl)propanoicacid
NAA04594
AKOS016844113
NCGC00015653-01
C19442
Q27271686