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Coenzyme Q10

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Identification
Molecular formula
C59H90O4
CAS number
303-98-0
IUPAC name
[3-acetamido-4,5-dihydroxy-6-(hydroxymethyl)tetrahydropyran-2-yl] [hydroxy(3,7,11,15,19,23,27,31,35,39,43-undecamethyltetratetraconta-2,6,10,14,18,22,26,30,34,38,42-undecaenoxy)phosphoryl] hydrogen phosphate
State
State

Coenzyme Q10 is a solid at room temperature, commonly provided in powdered or encapsulated form. Though it is stable in its solid state, its solubility in aqueous environments is low, necessitating formulation strategies for effective bioavailability when used in supplements.

Melting point (Celsius)
49.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
322.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
611.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
884.15
General information
Molecular weight
863.37g/mol
Molar mass
863.3650g/mol
Density
0.4910g/cm3
Appearence

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is typically a yellow or orange crystalline powder. It is poorly soluble in water but soluble in organic solvents. CoQ10 is sensitive to light and air, which can result in degradation, hence it is often stored in opaque containers.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of [3-acetamido-4,5-dihydroxy-6-(hydroxymethyl)tetrahydropyran-2-yl] [hydroxy(3,7,11,15,19,23,27,31,35,39,43-undecamethyltetratetraconta-2,6,10,14,18,22,26,30,34,38,42-undecaenoxy)phosphoryl] hydrogen phosphate

The solubility characteristics of this complex compound, with the formula C59H90O4, present unique challenges and considerations due to its intricate structure. A few key points about its solubility include:

  • Polarity: The numerous hydroxyl groups and the phosphoryl moiety enhance the polarity of this compound, which potentially increases its ability to interact with polar solvents.
  • Hydrogen Bonding: The presence of multiple –OH groups suggests that strong hydrogen bonding can occur, particularly in aqueous environments, which may aid in solubility.
  • Hydrophobic Segments: The long hydrocarbon chain portions can hinder solubility in polar solvents due to their hydrophobic nature, potentially leading to a dual-character of solubility that favors moderate solubility in organic solvents.
  • Temperature Dependence: As is common with many organic compounds, solubility could depend on temperature; higher temperatures might help in dissolving more of the compound.

In conclusion, while the presence of polar functional groups promotes solubility in water, the hydrophobic segments may pose challenges, making it likely to exhibit selective solubility profiles. Therefore, testing in various solvent environments is essential to fully ascertain the solubility characteristics of this compound.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about [3-acetamido-4,5-dihydroxy-6-(hydroxymethyl)tetrahydropyran-2-yl] [hydroxy(3,7,11,15,19,23,27,31,35,39,43-undecamethyltetratetraconta-2,6,10,14,18,22,26,30,34,38,42-undecaenoxy)phosphoryl] hydrogen phosphate

This compound, with a notably complex structure, showcases intriguing aspects that are worth exploring from a chemical perspective:

  • Multifunctional Roles: The presence of both acetamido and hydroxy groups highlights its potential biological significance, suggesting roles in metabolic pathways or as a building block in more complex molecules.
  • Phosphorylation: The phosphoryl moiety plays a crucial role in energy transfer and signaling in biological systems, reminiscent of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which underscores its importance in biochemistry.
  • Structural Diversity: The tetrahydropyran ring contributes to the structural diversity of this compound, which may provide unique interactions with biological targets, enhancing its utility in drug design or as a biochemical probe.
  • Long-Chain Element: The undecamethyltetratetraconta segment introduces significant lipophilicity, potentially allowing the compound to interact with lipid membranes, influencing its absorption and bioavailability in physiological systems.
  • Potential Applications: Given its unique structure, this compound could be investigated in various fields such as drug development, bioengineering, or materials science, where complex organophosphate derivatives show promise.

Chemists often focus on such intricate molecules to uncover novel properties and applications. As one chemist quoted, "Complexity invites exploration; within each molecular twist, there lies potential for discovery." This compound exemplifies that very notion, showing that there is much more than meets the eye in the world of chemistry.