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Carnitine

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Identification
Molecular formula
C9H17NO4
CAS number
541-15-1
IUPAC name
(3S)-3-acetoxy-4-(trimethylammonio)butanoate
State
State
At room temperature, carnitine exists as a solid. It is commonly stored in its solid form and may be found in various formulations. The compound is hygroscopic and may absorb moisture from the air when exposed.
Melting point (Celsius)
197.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
470.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
244.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
517.15
General information
Molecular weight
161.20g/mol
Molar mass
161.1990g/mol
Density
1.2290g/cm3
Appearence

Carnitine is a white crystalline powder. It may also appear as a white crystalline solid when isolated and is generally odorless. Typical commercial preparations of carnitine supplements may differ in appearance due to formulation with other additives.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of (3S)-3-acetoxy-4-(trimethylammonio)butanoate

The solubility of (3S)-3-acetoxy-4-(trimethylammonio)butanoate can be considered from various perspectives:

  • Polarity: Due to the presence of the trimethylammonio group, this compound tends to exhibit a high degree of polarity. This polarity generally enhances its solubility in polar solvents, particularly water.
  • Ionic Interaction: The positively charged trimethylammonio moiety can interact favorably with water molecules, further promoting hydrophilic behavior.
  • Temperature Dependency: The solubility may increase with temperature, which is often the case for ionic or polar compounds.
  • Concentration Effects: At certain concentrations, the solubility could exhibit non-ideal behavior due to intermolecular interactions among the molecules themselves.

In summary, the solubility of (3S)-3-acetoxy-4-(trimethylammonio)butanoate is expected to be high in polar solvents like water, primarily owing to its ionic characteristics and molecular structure. Thus, it presents significant relevance in applications where solubility in aqueous media is critical.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about (3S)-3-acetoxy-4-(trimethylammonio)butanoate

(3S)-3-acetoxy-4-(trimethylammonio)butanoate, often referred to in biochemical contexts, plays a significant role in various biological systems. Here are some interesting insights:

  • Biochemical Relevance: This compound is a derivative of amino acids and is involved in the metabolism of neurotransmitters, making it essential for nerve function and communication.
  • Structural Characteristics: The presence of the trimethylammonio group indicates strong positive charge characteristics, which can enhance solubility and interaction with biological membranes.
  • Natural Sources: It can be synthesized in the body or obtained from dietary sources, linking nutrition to brain health.
  • Role in Research: Due to its amphipathic nature, it is utilized in the study of cellular membranes and the transport mechanisms of ions and molecules across lipid bilayers.

This compound showcases the intricate connection between our diet, molecular structures, and their physiological impacts. As researchers continue to uncover the roles of such compounds, we gain deeper insights into how our bodies function at the molecular level.

Synonyms
acetyl-d-carnitine
4398-79-2
acetyl-d(+)-carnitine
521T0J13MA
(S)-ACETYLCARNITINE
ACETYL (+)-CARNITINE
ACETYLCARNITINE, (+)-
(3S)-3-acetoxy-4-(trimethylammonio)butyrate
(3S)-3-acetyloxy-4-(trimethylazaniumyl)butanoate
(3S)-3-(acetyloxy)-4-(trimethylazaniumyl)butanoate
AMMONIUM, (3-CARBOXY-2-HYDROXYPROPYL)TRIMETHYL-, HYDROXIDE, INNER SALT, ACETATE, D-
d-acetylcarnitine
1-Propanaminium, 2-(acetyloxy)-3-carboxy-N,N,N-trimethyl-, inner salt, (2S)-
UNII-521T0J13MA
(+)-acetylcarnitine
Acylcarnitine C2:0
O-acetyl-D-carnitine
SCHEMBL677128
CHEBI:86045
DTXSID90196007
LMFA07070049
AKOS015911248
1-Propanaminium, 2-(acetyloxy)-3-carboxy-N,N,N-trimethyl-, hydroxide, inner salt, (S)-
PD051721
NS00124924
Q27074154