Interesting Facts About (3R)-2-amino-3-hydroxy-3-phenyl-propanoic Acid
(3R)-2-amino-3-hydroxy-3-phenyl-propanoic acid, often referred to as Phenylalanine, is a fascinating compound in the world of biochemistry and nutrition. It belongs to the category of non-essential amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins and play a critical role in various physiological processes.
Key Attributes
- Amino Acid Structure: Being an amino acid, it features both an amino group and a carboxylic acid group, which are essential for its reactivity and biological functions.
- Natural Occurrence: Found in many protein-rich foods such as meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, and legumes, it is crucial in human nutrition.
- Role in Protein Synthesis: It is integral to the synthesis of proteins, serving as one of the 20 standard amino acids incorporated into proteins during translation.
Biological Significance
This compound is not only vital for human health but is also a precursor to neurotransmitters. Here are some of its significant functions:
- Precursor to Tyrosine: (3R)-2-amino-3-hydroxy-3-phenyl-propanoic acid can be converted into tyrosine, which is necessary for the production of dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine.
- Impact on Mood and Cognition: As it contributes to neurotransmitter synthesis, it plays a role in mood regulation and cognitive functions.
- Health Benefits: Research suggests it may aid in managing conditions like depression and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Cultural and Nutritional Relevance
In addition to its biological and chemical importance, (3R)-2-amino-3-hydroxy-3-phenyl-propanoic acid has a noteworthy cultural significance:
- Supplementation: It is commonly marketed as a dietary supplement to enhance mental performance and alleviate stress.
- Dietary Restrictions: Individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU) must limit their intake of this amino acid due to their inability to metabolize it properly, highlighting the importance of monitoring dietary phenylalanine levels.
In summary, (3R)-2-amino-3-hydroxy-3-phenyl-propanoic acid is much more than just a simple compound; it bridges the gap between nutrition, biochemistry, and human health. Its role in neurotransmitter production and significance in protein synthesis cannot be overstated, making it an essential topic of discussion in both academic and practical realms of biochemistry.
Solubility of (3R)-2-amino-3-hydroxy-3-phenyl-propanoic acid
(3R)-2-amino-3-hydroxy-3-phenyl-propanoic acid, with the chemical formula C9H11NO3, is a compound that showcases interesting solubility characteristics. Its solubility can be attributed to several factors:
In summary, due to its unique molecular structure, (3R)-2-amino-3-hydroxy-3-phenyl-propanoic acid typically displays solubility in water and other polar solvents. However, it is essential to consider environmental factors such as pH and temperature when evaluating its solubility characteristics.