L-Glutaminel stands out as an essential α-amino acid with the chemical formula C5H10N2O3. Its unique structure features a side chain containing an amide group (-CONH2). This specific group enhances its hydrophilic nature, making it highly interactive with water. By exploring the structure of L-Glutaminel, you gain valuable insights into its chemical behavior and biological importance. Understanding these aspects helps you appreciate its role in various physiological processes and its significance in scientific research.
Key Takeaways
- L-Glutamine is an essential amino acid with a unique structure that includes an amide group, enhancing its solubility in water.
- Understanding L-Glutamine's molecular formula (C5H10N2O3) and molecular weight (146.15 g/mol) is crucial for its applications in laboratories and medical treatments.
- The presence of functional groups like amino (-NH2), carboxyl (-COOH), and amide (-CONH2) defines L-Glutamine's chemical behavior and its role in protein synthesis and nitrogen transport.
- L-Glutamine is vital for rapidly dividing cells, such as those in the immune system and gut, providing energy and supporting tissue repair.
- Its high melting point (185 °C) and solubility in water make L-Glutamine suitable for various biological and industrial applications.
- L-Glutamine is widely used in dietary supplements and medical treatments, highlighting its importance in health and wellness.
- Chemical identifiers like SMILES and InChI codes facilitate the study and application of L-Glutamine in research and industry.
Chemical Formula and Molecular Weight
Molecular FormulaL-Glutamine's molecular formula is C5H10N2O3, consisting of five carbon atoms, ten hydrogen atoms, two nitrogen atoms, and three oxygen atoms.
The molecular formula of L-Glutamine reveals its elemental composition. You can see that it contains carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, and oxygen in specific proportions. These elements form the backbone of its structure. Carbon atoms provide the framework, while hydrogen atoms stabilize the molecule. Nitrogen contributes to its amino and amide groups, and oxygen plays a role in its carboxyl and amide functionalities. This precise arrangement gives L-Glutamine its unique chemical identity.
Molecular WeightThe molecular weight of L-Glutamine is approximately 146.15 g/mol, calculated based on the atomic weights of its elements.
The molecular weight of L-Glutamine helps you understand its mass at the molecular level. This value, 146.15 g/mol, is determined by summing the atomic weights of all its constituent atoms. Knowing this weight is essential in various applications, such as preparing solutions in laboratories or calculating dosages in medical treatments. It also provides insight into how L-Glutamine interacts with other molecules in biological systems.
Structural Features
Functional Groups L-Glutamine contains an amino group (-NH2), a carboxyl group (-COOH), and an amide group (-CONH2).
You can identify three key functional groups in L-Glutamine. The amino group (-NH2) gives it basic properties, while the carboxyl group (-COOH) contributes to its acidic nature. The amide group (-CONH2) makes the molecule hydrophilic, allowing it to interact well with water. These groups define how L-Glutamine behaves chemically and biologically. They also play a role in its ability to form bonds with other molecules, which is crucial for its function in living organisms.
These functional groups contribute to its chemical reactivity and hydrophilic properties.
The functional groups in L-Glutamine determine its reactivity. The amino and carboxyl groups participate in chemical reactions, such as peptide bond formation. The amide group enhances its solubility in water, making it suitable for biological environments. This combination of properties allows L-Glutamine to perform essential roles in your body, including protein synthesis and nitrogen transport.
Bonding and 3D StructureThe molecule is held together by covalent bonds.
Covalent bonds connect the atoms in L-Glutamine. These strong bonds ensure the molecule's stability. Each bond forms when atoms share electrons, creating a robust structure that resists breaking under normal conditions. This stability is vital for its function in biological systems.
Its 3D structure is polar, influenced by the arrangement of its functional groups.
The 3D structure of L-Glutamine is polar. The arrangement of its functional groups, such as the amino and carboxyl groups, creates regions of positive and negative charge. This polarity allows the molecule to dissolve in water and interact with other polar substances. You can see this property in its role within cells, where it participates in various biochemical processes.
Key Physical and Chemical PropertiesMelting point: 185 °C; boiling point: ~265.74 °C.
L-Glutamine has a melting point of 185 °C. This high melting point reflects its stable structure. Its boiling point, approximately 265.74 °C, further demonstrates its resistance to heat. These properties make it suitable for use in laboratory and industrial applications.
Density: 1.47 g/cm³ at 20 °C.
The density of L-Glutamine is 1.47 g/cm³ at room temperature. This value helps you understand its compactness and mass relative to its volume. Knowing the density is useful when measuring or mixing it in solutions.
Solubility: Soluble in water, dimethyl sulfoxide, and ethanol; insoluble in methanol, ether, benzene, and acetone.
L-Glutamine dissolves easily in water, dimethyl sulfoxide, and ethanol. This solubility makes it versatile for biological and chemical applications. However, it does not dissolve in methanol, ether, benzene, or acetone. This selective solubility highlights its compatibility with specific solvents.
pKa values: 2.17 and 9.13, indicating weak acid and base behavior.
The pKa values of L-Glutamine are 2.17 and 9.13. These values show that it can act as both a weak acid and a weak base. This dual behavior allows it to maintain stability in different pH environments, which is essential for its role in your body.
Isoelectric point (pI): ~5.65, relevant for its behavior in biological systems.
The isoelectric point (pI) of L-Glutamine is approximately 5.65. At this pH, the molecule carries no net electrical charge. This property affects how it interacts with other molecules, especially in biological systems like your cells.
Key IdentifiersSMILES RepresentationThe SMILES code for L-Glutamine is "C(CC(=O)N)C(C(=O)O)N".
The SMILES (Simplified Molecular Input Line Entry System) code provides a shorthand way to describe the structure of L-Glutamine. It uses a string of characters to represent the arrangement of atoms and bonds in the molecule. This code, "C(CC(=O)N)C(C(=O)O)N", helps chemists and researchers quickly understand its molecular structure without needing a visual diagram. You can use this representation in computational chemistry tools to model or predict the behavior of L-Glutamine in various environments.
InChI and InChIKeyThe InChI for L-Glutamine is "InChI=1S/C5H10N2O3/c6-3(5(9)10)1-2-7-4(8)5/h3H,1-2,6H2,(H,7,8)(H,9,10)".The InChIKey is "ZDXPYRJPNDTMRX-UHFFFAOYSA-N".
The International Chemical Identifier (InChI) provides a standardized way to describe L-Glutamine's structure. It encodes detailed information about the molecule, including its connectivity and hydrogen placement. The InChIKey, "ZDXPYRJPNDTMRX-UHFFFAOYSA-N", acts as a condensed, fixed-length version of the InChI. You can use it to search for L-Glutamine in chemical databases or scientific literature. These identifiers ensure consistency when sharing or referencing the molecule across different platforms and research studies.
Applications and ImportanceBiological SignificanceL-Glutamine is essential for protein synthesis, nitrogen transport, and cellular energy.
You rely on L-Glutamine to support critical biological processes. It plays a key role in protein synthesis, helping your body build and repair tissues. This amino acid also assists in nitrogen transport, which balances nitrogen levels in your body. Nitrogen is vital for creating amino acids and nucleotides. Additionally, L-Glutamine serves as a source of cellular energy. Your cells, especially those that divide rapidly, use it to fuel their activities and maintain proper function.
It serves as a fuel source for rapidly dividing cells, such as immune and intestinal cells.
Your immune system and intestinal lining depend on L-Glutamine for energy. Immune cells, like lymphocytes and macrophages, use it to fight infections and maintain your health. Intestinal cells rely on it to repair and regenerate the gut lining. This process ensures proper digestion and nutrient absorption. Without sufficient L-Glutamine, these cells may struggle to perform their functions effectively, which could impact your overall well-being.
Industrial and Research ApplicationsUsed in cell culture media, dietary supplements, and medical treatments.
L-Glutamine finds extensive use in various industries. In laboratories, researchers include it in cell culture media to support the growth of cells during experiments. In the health and wellness sector, it appears in dietary supplements to promote muscle recovery and gut health. Medical professionals also use it in treatments for conditions like chemotherapy-induced side effects or severe burns. These applications highlight its versatility and importance in both science and medicine.
Its chemical properties make it valuable in biochemical research.
The unique chemical properties of L-Glutamine make it a valuable tool in research. Scientists study its role in metabolic pathways to understand how your body processes nutrients. Its ability to interact with other molecules helps researchers explore protein synthesis and cellular energy production. By examining L-Glutamine, scientists gain insights into its potential therapeutic uses and its impact on human health.
L-Glutamine plays a crucial role in both biological systems and industrial applications. Its well-defined chemical structure, including functional groups and molecular formula, helps you understand its unique properties. Tools like SMILES and InChI codes make it easier for you to explore its molecular details. By studying L-Glutamine, you gain insights into its significance in protein synthesis, nitrogen transport, and energy production. This knowledge highlights its value in scientific research, medical treatments, and everyday health. Understanding its structure empowers you to appreciate its impact on various fields.
FAQWhat is L-Glutamine, and why is it important?
L-Glutamine is an α-amino acid with the chemical formula C5H10N2O3. It plays a vital role in your body by supporting protein synthesis, nitrogen transport, and cellular energy production. It also serves as a fuel source for rapidly dividing cells, such as immune and intestinal cells, making it essential for maintaining overall health.
How does L-Glutamine benefit your body?
L-Glutamine helps your body in several ways. It aids in building and repairing tissues through protein synthesis. It balances nitrogen levels, which are crucial for creating amino acids and nucleotides. Additionally, it provides energy to cells, especially those in your immune system and gut lining, ensuring proper function and regeneration.
What are the key physical properties of L-Glutamine?
L-Glutamine has a melting point of 185 °C and a boiling point of approximately 265.74 °C. Its density is 1.47 g/cm³ at 20 °C. It dissolves well in water, dimethyl sulfoxide, and ethanol but does not dissolve in methanol, ether, benzene, or acetone. These properties make it suitable for various biological and industrial applications.
Is L-Glutamine safe to use as a dietary supplement?
Yes, L-Glutamine is generally safe when used as a dietary supplement. It supports muscle recovery, gut health, and immune function. However, you should consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement, especially if you have medical conditions or take medications.
How does L-Glutamine interact with water?
L-Glutamine is highly hydrophilic due to its amide group (-CONH2). This property allows it to dissolve easily in water and interact with other polar molecules. Its solubility in water makes it effective in biological systems and laboratory applications.
What is the significance of the isoelectric point (pI) of L-Glutamine?
The isoelectric point (pI) of L-Glutamine is approximately 5.65. At this pH, the molecule carries no net electrical charge. This property influences how it behaves in biological systems, including its interactions with other molecules and its solubility in different environments.
Can L-Glutamine be used in medical treatments?
Yes, L-Glutamine is used in medical treatments. It helps manage chemotherapy side effects, promotes healing in severe burns, and supports recovery in critical illnesses. Its ability to provide energy and repair tissues makes it valuable in clinical settings.
What are the industrial applications of L-Glutamine?
L-Glutamine is widely used in industries. It is a key component in cell culture media for research and pharmaceutical development. It appears in dietary supplements to support health and wellness. Its chemical properties also make it useful in biochemical research.
How do scientists represent L-Glutamine in chemical databases?
Scientists use SMILES and InChI codes to represent L-Glutamine in chemical databases. The SMILES code is "C(CC(=O)N)C(C(=O)O)N," while the InChI is "InChI=1S/C5H10N2O3/c6-3(5(9)10)1-2-7-4(8)5/h3H,1-2,6H2,(H,7,8)(H,9,10)." These identifiers provide a standardized way to describe its structure and ensure consistency in research.
Why is L-Glutamine essential for rapidly dividing cells?
Rapidly dividing cells, such as immune and intestinal cells, rely on L-Glutamine as a primary energy source. It fuels their activities, supports their growth, and helps them maintain proper function. Without enough L-Glutamine, these cells may struggle to perform effectively, impacting your overall health.
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