Isovaleric acid: Difference between revisions

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

CSV import
 
CSV import
 
(2 intermediate revisions by the same user not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
{{Chembox
{{DISPLAYTITLE:Isovaleric acid}}
| Name = Isovaleric acid
| ImageFile =
| ImageSize =
| IUPACName = 3-Methylbutanoic acid
| OtherNames = Isovaleric acid, 3-Methylbutyric acid
| Section1 =
| Section2 =
| Section3 =
}}


'''Isovaleric acid''', also known as '''3-methylbutanoic acid''', is an [[organic compound]] with the formula (CH₃)₂CHCH₂COOH. It is classified as a [[branched-chain fatty acid]] and is commonly found in various natural oils and plant extracts. Isovaleric acid is notable for its strong, pungent odor, which is often described as resembling sweaty feet or aged cheese.
[[File:Isovaleric_acid_structure.png|thumb|right|Structure of Isovaleric Acid]]


==Properties==
'''Isovaleric acid''' is a branched-chain [[fatty acid]] with the chemical formula (CH₃)₂CHCH₂COOH. It is a colorless liquid that is sparingly soluble in water but highly soluble in most organic solvents. Isovaleric acid is known for its pungent odor, which is often described as similar to that of [[sweaty feet]] or [[cheese]].
Isovaleric acid is a colorless liquid that is sparingly soluble in [[water]], but well soluble in most common organic solvents such as [[ethanol]] and [[diethyl ether]]. The compound has a boiling point of approximately 176°C and a melting point of -31°C.


==Production==
==Chemical Properties==
Isovaleric acid can be produced through several methods, including the [[oxidation]] of isovaleryl aldehyde or the fermentation of [[amino acids]] such as [[leucine]]. It is also a natural byproduct of the metabolic processes in various organisms.
Isovaleric acid is a [[carboxylic acid]] and is classified as a short-chain [[fatty acid]]. It is a structural isomer of [[valeric acid]], differing in the branching of its carbon chain. The presence of a methyl group on the second carbon atom gives isovaleric acid its characteristic structure and properties.


==Applications==
==Biological Role==
Isovaleric acid has several applications in different industries. In the [[food industry]], it is used as a flavoring agent to impart a distinctive flavor to certain food products. In [[perfumery]], it is used to create musky or sweaty odors. Additionally, it serves as an intermediate in the manufacture of [[plasticizers]], [[lubricants]], and [[pharmaceuticals]].
In biological systems, isovaleric acid is a product of the metabolism of the amino acid [[leucine]]. It is involved in various metabolic pathways and can be found in the [[human body]] as well as in other organisms. Isovaleric acid is also a component of [[sweat]] and contributes to the characteristic odor of [[body odor]].


==Biological Significance==
==Industrial Uses==
In humans, elevated levels of isovaleric acid can be indicative of a rare genetic disorder known as [[Isovaleric acidemia]]. This condition is characterized by the body's inability to properly process the amino acid leucine, leading to a buildup of isovaleric acid in the blood, which can be toxic and cause severe metabolic disturbances.
Isovaleric acid is used in the production of various [[esters]], which are employed as [[flavoring agents]] and [[fragrances]]. It is also used in the synthesis of [[pharmaceuticals]] and [[agrochemicals]].


==Safety==
==Isovaleric Acidemia==
Isovaleric acid can be irritating to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Adequate ventilation and protective equipment are recommended when handling this chemical in industrial settings.
[[Isovaleric acidemia]] is a rare [[metabolic disorder]] caused by a deficiency of the enzyme isovaleryl-CoA dehydrogenase, which is involved in the breakdown of leucine. This condition leads to the accumulation of isovaleric acid in the body, resulting in symptoms such as vomiting, lethargy, and a distinctive "sweaty feet" odor. Management of isovaleric acidemia involves dietary restrictions and supplementation with [[glycine]] and [[carnitine]].


[[Category:Organic acids]]
==Synthesis==
[[Category:Chemical compounds]]
Isovaleric acid can be synthesized through various chemical processes. One common method involves the oxidation of [[isovaleraldehyde]]. It can also be produced by the fermentation of certain [[bacteria]] that metabolize leucine.
{{Chemistry-stub}}
 
[[File:HMB_synthesis.svg|thumb|left|Synthesis of HMB]]
 
==Related Compounds==
Isovaleric acid is related to several other compounds, including:
* [[Valeric acid]]
* [[Isobutyric acid]]
* [[3-Methylbutanoic acid]]
 
==Related Pages==
* [[Carboxylic acid]]
* [[Fatty acid]]
* [[Metabolic disorder]]
* [[Leucine]]
 
{{Short description|Branched-chain fatty acid}}
{{Chemical compound}}
 
[[Category:Carboxylic acids]]
[[Category:Fatty acids]]
[[Category:Metabolic disorders]]

Latest revision as of 18:58, 23 March 2025


Structure of Isovaleric Acid

Isovaleric acid is a branched-chain fatty acid with the chemical formula (CH₃)₂CHCH₂COOH. It is a colorless liquid that is sparingly soluble in water but highly soluble in most organic solvents. Isovaleric acid is known for its pungent odor, which is often described as similar to that of sweaty feet or cheese.

Chemical Properties[edit]

Isovaleric acid is a carboxylic acid and is classified as a short-chain fatty acid. It is a structural isomer of valeric acid, differing in the branching of its carbon chain. The presence of a methyl group on the second carbon atom gives isovaleric acid its characteristic structure and properties.

Biological Role[edit]

In biological systems, isovaleric acid is a product of the metabolism of the amino acid leucine. It is involved in various metabolic pathways and can be found in the human body as well as in other organisms. Isovaleric acid is also a component of sweat and contributes to the characteristic odor of body odor.

Industrial Uses[edit]

Isovaleric acid is used in the production of various esters, which are employed as flavoring agents and fragrances. It is also used in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals.

Isovaleric Acidemia[edit]

Isovaleric acidemia is a rare metabolic disorder caused by a deficiency of the enzyme isovaleryl-CoA dehydrogenase, which is involved in the breakdown of leucine. This condition leads to the accumulation of isovaleric acid in the body, resulting in symptoms such as vomiting, lethargy, and a distinctive "sweaty feet" odor. Management of isovaleric acidemia involves dietary restrictions and supplementation with glycine and carnitine.

Synthesis[edit]

Isovaleric acid can be synthesized through various chemical processes. One common method involves the oxidation of isovaleraldehyde. It can also be produced by the fermentation of certain bacteria that metabolize leucine.

Synthesis of HMB

Related Compounds[edit]

Isovaleric acid is related to several other compounds, including:

Related Pages[edit]


Branched-chain fatty acid