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Corticosterone

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Identification
Molecular formula
C21H30O4
CAS number
50-22-6
IUPAC name
(4S,5S,17S)-17-hydroxy-4,10,13-trimethyl-1,2,4,5,6,7,8,9,11,12,14,15,16,17-tetradecahydrocyclopenta[a]phenanthren-3-one
State
State

Corticosterone is typically in a solid-state at room temperature.

Melting point (Celsius)
180.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
453.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
446.50
Boiling point (Kelvin)
719.70
General information
Molecular weight
346.47g/mol
Molar mass
346.4670g/mol
Density
1.1500g/cm3
Appearence

Corticosterone is typically a white crystalline solid.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of (4S,5S,17S)-17-hydroxy-4,10,13-trimethyl-1,2,4,5,6,7,8,9,11,12,14,15,16,17-tetradecahydrocyclopenta[a]phenanthren-3-one

The solubility of the compound with the chemical formula C21H30O4 can be characterized as follows:

  • Polarity: The presence of hydroxyl (-OH) groups indicates that the molecule may exhibit some degree of polarity, potentially allowing it to interact with polar solvents.
  • Solvent Compatibility:
    • It may be soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol, methanol, and perhaps acetone.
    • However, it is likely insoluble or only slightly soluble in water due to the hydrophobic hydrocarbon portions of the molecule.
  • Concentration Dependency: The solubility can also be influenced by temperature; higher temperatures often increase the solubility of organic compounds.
  • Applications: Understanding its solubility profile is crucial for its use in various formulations, particularly in pharmaceuticals or organic synthesis where solvent selection is key.

In conclusion, while there is potential for solubility in certain organic solvents, the overall solubility of this hydrophobic compound in polar environments such as water is expected to be limited.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about (4S,5S,17S)-17-hydroxy-4,10,13-trimethyl-1,2,4,5,6,7,8,9,11,12,14,15,16,17-tetradecahydrocyclopenta[a]phenanthren-3-one

This compound is a fascinating example within the realm of steroid chemistry. It is particularly notable for its intriguing structural features and biological significance:

  • Steroid Backbone: The compound possesses a characteristic steroid backbone, which is a fundamental structure found in many biological molecules, including hormones.
  • Hydroxyl Group: The presence of a hydroxyl group (-OH) at the 17th carbon plays a crucial role in enhancing the compound's reactivity and biological activity.
  • Trimethyl Substituents: This compound features three methyl groups, positioned on specific carbons, which can influence the compound's hydrophobicity and its interaction with biological targets.

Scientifically, the compound may have potential applications or analogs in medicinal chemistry, particularly in the development of bioactive molecules that could lead to the discovery of new pharmaceuticals.

Biological Relevance

The role of similar steroid compounds in biological systems is profound:

  • They often serve as hormones, facilitating a variety of physiological processes such as metabolism, immune function, and sexual function.
  • Many steroid-like compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, making them valuable in therapeutic contexts.

Furthermore, with ongoing research into the structure-activity relationship (SAR) of such compounds, understanding their functionality could lead to breakthroughs in pharmacology and drug design.

In summary, (4S,5S,17S)-17-hydroxy-4,10,13-trimethyl-1,2,4,5,6,7,8,9,11,12,14,15,16,17-tetradecahydrocyclopenta[a]phenanthren-3-one is not merely a compound of structural interest but also represents an exciting area of investigation in the overlapping fields of chemistry and biology.