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Apigenin

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Identification
Molecular formula
C15H10O5
CAS number
520-36-5
IUPAC name
4,5-dihydroxy-3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)chromen-7-one
State
State

At room temperature, Apigenin is in a solid state. It is most commonly found as part of plant extracts rather than in its isolated pure form.

Melting point (Celsius)
345.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
618.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
440.50
Boiling point (Kelvin)
713.65
General information
Molecular weight
270.24g/mol
Molar mass
270.2400g/mol
Density
1.3939g/cm3
Appearence

Apigenin is a yellow crystalline solid. In its pure form, it is typically found as a powder. It is insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol and DMSO. The compound often appears in various plants and flowers, which contributes to their color.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 4,5-dihydroxy-3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)chromen-7-one

The solubility of 4,5-dihydroxy-3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)chromen-7-one (C15H10O5) is influenced by a variety of factors, particularly its molecular structure and functional groups. Here are key points to consider when discussing its solubility:

  • Hydroxyl Groups: The presence of multiple hydroxyl (–OH) groups significantly enhances the compound's ability to engage in hydrogen bonding with solvents, particularly water.
  • Polarity: The polarity of 4,5-dihydroxy-3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)chromen-7-one contributes to its solubility in polar solvents, while it may exhibit limited solubility in nonpolar environments.
  • Organic Solvents: This compound is likely more soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol or dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), which can solvate the molecule effectively due to their ability to interact with hydroxyl groups.
  • pH Sensitivity: Fluctuations in pH can affect solubility; under alkaline conditions, deprotonation of hydroxyl groups may improve solubility.

In summary, while 4,5-dihydroxy-3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)chromen-7-one shows promising solubility in polar solvents due to its functional groups, its solubility in various environments may vary significantly based on the solvent characteristics and external conditions such as pH.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 4,5-Dihydroxy-3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)chromen-7-one

This fascinating compound, often referred to as a flavonoid, falls into a class of naturally occurring substances with varied chemical structures and potential health benefits. Here are some notable aspects:

  • Flavonoid Family: As a member of the flavonoid family, it shares similarities with other compounds that have been extensively studied for their antioxidant properties.
  • Source: This compound can be isolated from various plants, contributing to the characteristic colors and health benefits of fruits and vegetables.
  • Biological Activity: Research suggests that it may exhibit anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities, making it an interesting subject for scientific investigation in cancer research.
  • Mechanisms of Action: The mechanisms through which this compound operates include the modulation of signaling pathways and the enhancement of cellular defense mechanisms against oxidative stress.
  • Future Potential: Scientists are exploring its potential in drug development, especially in creating natural products that can combat various diseases.

One of the remarkable quotes from research on flavonoids is that they "possess a unique ability to cushion cellular components against oxidative damage," highlighting their importance in both nutrition and health care.

Furthermore, the structure of 4,5-dihydroxy-3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)chromen-7-one indicates a high degree of functionalization, suggesting that subtle changes in its structure could lead to significant differences in biological activity. This emphasizes the importance of structure-activity relationships in medicinal chemistry.

In summary, this compound not only exemplifies the beauty of nature’s chemistry but also opens doors to new possibilities in therapeutic applications. Its intricate structure and diverse biological effects make it a compound of interest in both academic and pharmaceutical realms.