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Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4)

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Identification
Molecular formula
C9H15N5O3
CAS number
17528-72-2
IUPAC name
2-amino-7,8-dihydroxy-6-(1,2,3-trihydroxypropyl)-1,5,6,7-tetrahydropteridin-4-one
State
State

Tetrahydrobiopterin is typically a solid at room temperature. It's a crystalline compound that is stable under normal conditions but may degrade if exposed to excessive heat or moisture.

Melting point (Celsius)
255.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
528.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
479.60
Boiling point (Kelvin)
752.80
General information
Molecular weight
241.24g/mol
Molar mass
241.2170g/mol
Density
1.6700g/cm3
Appearence

Tetrahydrobiopterin typically appears as a white or off-white crystalline powder. The compound is hydroscopic, meaning it can absorb moisture from the environment, which may influence its appearance over time. In aqueous solution, it may exhibit a slight yellowish color.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 2-amino-7,8-dihydroxy-6-(1,2,3-trihydroxypropyl)-1,5,6,7-tetrahydropteridin-4-one

The solubility of the compound 2-amino-7,8-dihydroxy-6-(1,2,3-trihydroxypropyl)-1,5,6,7-tetrahydropteridin-4-one (C9H15N5O3) can be quite fascinating due to its unique structural features. This compound contains several functional groups that influence its solubility characteristics:

  • Amino groups: The presence of amino groups (-NH2) often increases solubility in polar solvents, especially in water.
  • Hydroxyl groups: The -OH groups contribute significantly to hydrogen bonding, enhancing solubility in aqueous solutions.
  • Tetrahydropteridin core: This bicyclic structure may exhibit lower solubility compared to its hydroxyl and amino components due to increased hydrophobicity.

In general, you can expect that:

  • The compound is likely to be soluble in water owing to its multiple hydrophilic functional groups.
  • It may demonstrate varying solubility in different organic solvents, influenced by the balance of hydrophilic and hydrophobic features.
  • Higher concentrations of the compound in solution could lead to complex formation or aggregation, potentially reducing effective solubility.

As a rule of thumb, compounds with multiple hydroxyl and amino groups tend to exhibit good solubility in water, emphasizing the importance of functional group interactions in determining solubility behavior. Knowing these characteristics can aid in predicting how this compound might behave in various chemical environments.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 2-amino-7,8-dihydroxy-6-(1,2,3-trihydroxypropyl)-1,5,6,7-tetrahydropteridin-4-one

The compound known as 2-amino-7,8-dihydroxy-6-(1,2,3-trihydroxypropyl)-1,5,6,7-tetrahydropteridin-4-one is a fascinating structure that demonstrates intricate biological potential and chemical versatility. Here are some intriguing aspects:

  • Biosynthesis: This compound is part of the pteridine family, which means it plays a role in various enzymatic processes within biological systems. Pteridines are essential for the synthesis of folic acid and are involved in the metabolism of several important biomolecules.
  • Biological Importance: The presence of amino and hydroxyl groups suggests that this compound could participate in numerous biological reactions. Its structure allows potential interactions with enzymes and biological pathways associated with genetic regulation and metabolism.
  • Potential Therapeutic Applications: Compounds with pteridine structures have garnered attention in medicinal chemistry, particularly for their roles in developing treatments for diseases linked to deficiencies in folate metabolism or neurodegenerative conditions.
  • Research Significance: Ongoing studies into pteridines reveal their involvement in the synthesis of neurotransmitters and their potential impact on neurological health. As a researcher, one might explore how modifications to the trihydroxypropyl side chain influence the compound's biological activity.
  • Structural Complexity: The diverse functional groups in this molecule contribute to its solubility and reactivity, making it a valuable subject for studies in compound behavior under various conditions.

In conclusion, 2-amino-7,8-dihydroxy-6-(1,2,3-trihydroxypropyl)-1,5,6,7-tetrahydropteridin-4-one is not just a complex molecular structure, but a compound that embodies the intersection of chemistry and biology with vast potential for future scientific exploration. As you delve into its properties, consider the myriad ways it can be applied in research and healthcare.