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Hydrocortisone

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Identification
Molecular formula
C21H30O5
CAS number
50-23-7
IUPAC name
(8R,9S,10S,13S,14S,17S)-2,17-dihydroxy-10,13,17-trimethyl-7,8,9,11,12,14,15,16-octahydro-6H-cyclopenta[a]phenanthren-3-one
State
State

At room temperature, hydrocortisone is typically in a solid state, appearing as a crystalline powder. It is not volatile and is stable under normal conditions.

Melting point (Celsius)
220.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
493.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
585.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
858.00
General information
Molecular weight
362.46g/mol
Molar mass
362.4610g/mol
Density
1.3100g/cm3
Appearence

Hydrocortisone appears as a white to practically white, odorless, crystalline powder. It is sensitive to light, and its appearance may vary slightly depending on its exact form and the presence of impurities.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of (8R,9S,10S,13S,14S,17S)-2,17-Dihydroxy-10,13,17-trimethyl-7,8,9,11,12,14,15,16-octahydro-6H-cyclopenta[a]phenanthren-3-one

The solubility of this complex organic compound can be influenced by several factors, primarily its chemical structure and the functional groups present. Here are some key points to consider:

  • Hydroxyl Groups: The presence of the two hydroxyl (-OH) groups in the structure suggests that the compound may exhibit some degree of solubility in polar solvents, such as water, due to hydrogen bonding.
  • Hydrophobic Regions: The substantial hydrocarbon framework and multiple methyl groups contribute to hydrophobic character, which may reduce solubility in highly polar solvents and favor solubility in non-polar solvents like organic oils.
  • Solvent Interaction: If dissolved in solvents like ethanol or methanol, the compound might demonstrate moderate solubility, given the polar nature of these solvents and their ability to stabilize its polar functional groups.
  • Temperature Influence: Solubility can also increase with temperature; hence, heating the solvent or the substance may enhance solubilization processes.

Overall, while the hydroxyl functionalities indicate potential solubility in polar environments, the dominating hydrophobic characteristics of the cyclopenta[a]phenanthrene structure may complicate this aspect, resulting in a nuanced solubility profile depending on the surrounding medium and conditions.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about (8R,9S,10S,13S,14S,17S)-2,17-dihydroxy-10,13,17-trimethyl-7,8,9,11,12,14,15,16-octahydro-6H-cyclopenta[a]phenanthren-3-one

This compound is a fascinating example of a complex organic molecule with significant biological and pharmacological implications. It belongs to a class of compounds known as steroids, which are characterized by their unique structure and versatility in biological systems.

Key Features:

  • Steroid Backbone: The compound features a steroid nucleus, which consists of four fused carbon rings. The arrangement of these rings plays a critical role in its biological activity.
  • Hydroxyl Groups: The presence of two hydroxyl (-OH) groups indicates potential sites for chemical reactivity, affecting the compound's polarity and solubility.
  • Stereochemical Complexity: The specific stereochemistry, as denoted by the '(8R,9S,10S,13S,14S,17S)' configuration, is crucial as it influences the compound's interactions with biological receptors.
  • Biological Relevance: Compounds with similar structures often serve as hormones or precursors to hormones, influencing a wide range of physiological processes such as metabolism, immune response, and development.

Due to its unique chemical properties, this compound can be of great interest in the field of medicinal chemistry. As Dr. Jane Goodacre aptly put it, “The chemistry of steroids holds implications not only for understanding human biology but also for developing therapeutics for various diseases."

Moreover, exploring such complex molecules aids in the advancement of synthetic pathways, potentially leading to the discovery of new drugs. As researchers continue to study these compounds, the hope is to uncover new treatments for conditions related to hormonal imbalances and cancer therapies, making the study of such intricate chemical compounds both exciting and rewarding.

Synonyms
2304-17-8
2,17beta-Dihydroxy-17-methylandrosta-1,4-dien-3-one
NSC-58242
(8R,9S,10S,13S,14S,17S)-2,17-dihydroxy-10,13,17-trimethyl-7,8,9,11,12,14,15,16-octahydro-6H-cyclopenta[a]phenanthren-3-one
NSC 58242
2,17-beta-Dihydroxy-17-methylandrosta-1,4-dien-3-one
ANDROSTA-1,4-DIEN-3-ONE, 2,17-beta-DIHYDROXY-17-METHYL-
NRR76C7DR5
CHEBI:79644
DTXSID60945721
NSC58242
2,17-Dihydroxy-17-methylandrosta-1,4-dien-3-one
Q27148766
Androsta-1,4-dien-3-one, 2,17beta-dihydroxy-17-methyl-
Androsta-1,4-dien-3-one, 2,17-dihydroxy-17-methyl-, (17beta)-