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Histidine

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Identification
Molecular formula
C6H9N3O2
CAS number
71-00-1
IUPAC name
2-hydroxy-3-(1H-imidazol-5-yl)propanoic acid
State
State

Histidine is a solid at room temperature. As an amino acid, it is commonly found as its hydrochloride salt which also appears as a solid.

Melting point (Celsius)
277.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
550.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
260.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
533.00
General information
Molecular weight
155.16g/mol
Molar mass
155.1540g/mol
Density
1.5360g/cm3
Appearence

Histidine in its pure form appears as a white crystalline powder. It is one of the essential amino acids and is optically active, showing L-configuration in nature.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 2-Hydroxy-3-(1H-Imidazol-5-yl)propanoic Acid

2-Hydroxy-3-(1H-imidazol-5-yl)propanoic acid, with the chemical formula C6H9N3O2, exhibits interesting solubility characteristics that depend on various factors. Let us delve into its solubility properties:

  • Polar Nature: Due to the presence of both hydroxyl (-OH) and carboxylic acid (-COOH) functional groups, this compound is highly polar, enhancing its solubility in polar solvents such as water.
  • Temperature Sensitivity: The solubility can increase with temperature, making this compound more easily dissolvable in warmer conditions.
  • pH Dependency: The solubility might also be affected by the pH of the solution, as the ionization of the carboxylic acid group can vary based on the pH level.
  • Hydrogen Bonding: The ability to form hydrogen bonds with solvent molecules significantly contributes to its solubility, allowing it to interact effectively with water.

Overall, the solubility of 2-hydroxy-3-(1H-imidazol-5-yl)propanoic acid is good in polar solvents and is influenced by environmental factors. As one might say, "The key to solubility lies in the interplay of structure and environment."

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 2-hydroxy-3-(1H-imidazol-5-yl)propanoic Acid

2-hydroxy-3-(1H-imidazol-5-yl)propanoic acid, commonly known as L-histidine, is a fascinating compound notable for its importance in both biochemistry and nutrition. Here are some engaging facts about this intriguing molecule:

  • Amino Acid with Unique Properties: L-histidine is one of the twenty standard amino acids used by cells to synthesize proteins. What makes it unique is the presence of an imidazole side chain, which plays a critical role in enzyme activity and protein structure.
  • Essential for Humans: It is classified as an essential amino acid in infants and children. This means that while adults can synthesize it, the developing bodies of young organisms require it to be obtained through their diet.
  • Role in Histamine Production: L-histidine is a precursor for histamine, a vital compound involved in various physiological processes including immune responses, gastric acid secretion, and neurotransmission.
  • Buffer Properties: The pKa of the imidazole group allows L-histidine to act as a buffering agent, which is instrumental in maintaining pH levels in biological systems. This property is particularly significant in metabolic pathways.
  • Potential Therapeutic Applications: Recent studies suggest that L-histidine may have antioxidant properties and could play a role in protecting against neurodegenerative diseases, which opens exciting avenues for further research.

This compound not only showcases the intricacies of amino acid functionalities but also highlights the intricate balance of biochemistry that sustains life. As a chemistry student, understanding the multifaceted roles of compounds like 2-hydroxy-3-(1H-imidazol-5-yl)propanoic acid can enhance one's appreciation for the complex biochemical networks that underpin biological organisms.

"The study of amino acids is the study of life itself." - Anonymous

Synonyms
2-hydroxy-3-(1H-imidazol-5-yl)propanoic acid
Imidazole lactic acid
30581-88-5
Imidazole lactate
3-(imidazol-5-yl)lactic acid
2-Hydroxy-3-(1H-imidazol-5-yl)-propanoic acid
NoName_894
(S)-2-hydroxy-3-(1H-imidazol-4-yl)propanoicacid
SCHEMBL1131474
CHEBI:27487
DTXSID30901753
AKOS032947942
SB45391
S-2-hydroxy-4-imidazole propionic acid
2-hydroxy-3-(imidazol-4-yl)propanoic acid
DB-293109
C05568
EN300-1452062
2-Hydroxy-3-(3h-imidazol -4-yl )propanoic acid
Q27103160