Cardenolide | Solubility of Things

Identification

Molecular formula

C₂₉H₄₄O₁₀

CAS number

21180-95-2

IUPAC name

3-[(1R,3R,5R,10S,13R,14S,17R)-3-[(2S,5S)-3,5-dihydroxy-4-methoxy-6-methyl-tetrahydropyran-2-yl]oxy-1,14-dihydroxy-10,13-dimethyl-1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,11,12,15,16,17-tetradecahydrocyclopenta[a]phenanthren-17-yl]-2H-furan-5-one

State

Cardenolide compounds are typically found as solids at room temperature, notable for their somewhat rigid and crystal-like structure.

Melting point (Celsius)

245.00

Melting point (Kelvin)

518.15

Boiling point (Celsius)

226.00

Boiling point (Kelvin)

499.15

General information

Molecular weight

498.60g/mol

Molar mass

498.6030g/mol

Density

1.2600g/cm³

Appearence

Cardenolides are typically white crystalline or amorphous solid substances. They may appear as a powder or form needle-like crystals, possessing a bitter taste.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 3-[(1R,3R,5R,10S,13R,14S,17R)-3-[(2S,5S)-3,5-dihydroxy-4-methoxy-6-methyl-tetrahydropyran-2-yl]oxy-1,14-dihydroxy-10,13-dimethyl-1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,11,12,15,16,17-tetradecahydrocyclopenta[a]phenanthren-17-yl]-2H-furan-5-one

The solubility of complex organic compounds, such as this highly substituted furan derivative, can be particularly challenging to characterize. Generally, the solubility behavior can be influenced by several factors:

Molecular Structure: The presence of multiple functional groups, such as hydroxyl and methoxy groups, can enhance water solubility by facilitating hydrogen bonding.
Polarity: Compounds with polar functional groups tend to be more soluble in polar solvents (like water), while nonpolar portions may promote solubility in nonpolar solvents (like hexane).
Crystal Lattice Energy: The strength of intermolecular forces in the solid phase may affect the energy required to dissolve the compound.
Temperature: Generally, increasing temperature can increase the solubility of solids in liquids.
pH Effects: For compounds with acidic or basic functional groups, changes in pH can significantly impact solubility.

Given the compound's structural complexity, its solubility may also be categorized as:

Soluble: If it can easily interact with water due to numerous polar groups.
Insoluble: If the nonpolar sections dominate, preventing effective solvation.

In conclusion, carefully designed solubility testing under various conditions will be necessary to determine the precise solubility profile of this intriguing compound.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 3-[(1R,3R,5R,10S,13R,14S,17R)-3-[(2S,5S)-3,5-dihydroxy-4-methoxy-6-methyl-tetrahydropyran-2-yl]oxy-1,14-dihydroxy-10,13-dimethyl-1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,11,12,15,16,17-tetradecahydrocyclopenta[a]phenanthren-17-yl]-2H-furan-5-one

This fascinating compound, with a complex structure, belongs to the class of natural products known for their diverse biological activities. Here are some intriguing points to consider:

Natural Origins: Many compounds similar to this one are derived from plants and fungi, showcasing nature’s incredible ability to synthesize complex molecules.
Potential Therapeutic Applications: Compounds like this are often studied for their potential medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer activities.
Stereochemistry: The multiple chiral centers in this molecule highlight the importance of stereochemistry in determining the biological activity of pharmaceuticals.
Research Studies: Ongoing research often includes in vivo and in vitro studies, which aim to unlock the therapeutic potential of this compound.
Ecological Role: Compounds such as this one may play significant roles in ecological interactions, possibly acting as defense mechanisms for plants against herbivores.

As a future chemist or researcher, exploring compounds of such complexity opens a door to numerous possibilities in drug discovery, bioengineering, and understanding the intricate relationships of life on earth.

Quote to ponder: "Nature always wears the colors of the spirit." - Ralph Waldo Emerson