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Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4)

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Identification
Molecular formula
C9H15N5O3
CAS number
17528-72-2
IUPAC name
2-amino-6-(1,2-dihydroxypropyl)-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-1H-pteridin-4-one
State
State

At room temperature, tetrahydrobiopterin is in a solid state, specifically as a crystalline powder, which is important for its stability and storage.

Melting point (Celsius)
295.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
568.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
869.85
Boiling point (Kelvin)
1 143.00
General information
Molecular weight
241.24g/mol
Molar mass
241.2410g/mol
Density
2.7894g/cm3
Appearence

Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) is typically a white to off-white crystalline powder. It is prone to degradation by light and moisture, necessitating storage in an airtight, light-protective container.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 2-amino-6-(1,2-dihydroxypropyl)-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-1H-pteridin-4-one

The solubility of the compound 2-amino-6-(1,2-dihydroxypropyl)-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-1H-pteridin-4-one with the molecular formula C9H15N5O3 is influenced by several factors, showcasing its unique properties.

Key points regarding its solubility include:

  • Polarity: The presence of multiple hydroxyl (–OH) groups enhances the polar characteristics of the molecule, which typically aids in solubility in polar solvents such as water.
  • Hydrogen Bonding: The hydroxyl groups can form hydrogen bonds, allowing the compound to interact favorably with water, thus increasing solubility.
  • pH Dependency: Variations in pH can impact the ionization of the amino group, influencing its solubility in aqueous solutions.
  • Structural Complexity: The tetrahydro-pteridine structure contributes to a complex three-dimensional shape, which may affect both solubility and stability in solution.

In summary, while one might anticipate a favorable solubility profile for this compound due to its polar functional groups and ability to engage in hydrogen bonding, specific experimental data is essential to accurately quantify its solubility characteristics.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 2-Amino-6-(1,2-dihydroxypropyl)-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-1H-pteridin-4-one

This fascinating compound is part of the pteridine family, which are essentially bicyclic heterocycles known for their diverse biological roles. Here are some intriguing aspects of 2-amino-6-(1,2-dihydroxypropyl)-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-1H-pteridin-4-one:

  • Biological Significance: Compounds of the pteridine class often play essential roles in various biological processes, including acting as cofactors in metabolic pathways.
  • Potential Therapeutic Applications: The unique structure of this compound makes it a promising candidate in the development of drugs targeting diseases like cancer and neurological disorders.
  • Chirality: The presence of asymmetric centers in this molecule introduces chirality, which is key in pharmacology. Different stereoisomers can exhibit very different biological activities.
  • Derivatives: The modifications to the pteridine scaffold, such as the 1,2-dihydroxypropyl side chain, can lead to derivatives with enhanced solubility and bioavailability.
  • Research Potential: The pteridine framework has been a focus of research not only for its intrinsic biological activity but also for its potential applications in materials science.

In the words of chemists, "Understanding the nuances of molecular structures, like that of this compound, is akin to unveiling secrets that nature has to offer." As research continues to delve deep into the functionalities of such compounds, the opportunities for novel discoveries remain abundant!