D-β,γ-Me-ATP

D-β,γ-Me-ATP

D-β,γ-Me-ATP, or D-beta,gamma-methylene adenosine 5'-triphosphate, is a synthetic analog of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) that is used in biochemical research to study the function of ATP in various biological processes. This compound is particularly useful in the study of purinergic receptors, which are a class of receptors that are activated by purine nucleotides such as ATP.

Chemical Structure and Properties

D-β,γ-Me-ATP is a modified form of ATP where the oxygen atom bridging the beta and gamma phosphate groups is replaced by a methylene group (-CH2-). This modification makes the compound resistant to hydrolysis by ATPases, which are enzymes that typically break down ATP into ADP and inorganic phosphate. The chemical formula of D-β,γ-Me-ATP is C11H18N5O12P3.

Mechanism of Action

D-β,γ-Me-ATP acts as an agonist at certain subtypes of purinergic receptors, particularly the P2X and P2Y receptor families. These receptors are involved in a wide range of physiological processes, including neurotransmission, muscle contraction, and inflammation. By binding to these receptors, D-β,γ-Me-ATP can mimic the action of ATP, allowing researchers to study the effects of ATP receptor activation without the rapid degradation that occurs with natural ATP.

Applications in Research

D-β,γ-Me-ATP is widely used in pharmacological studies to investigate the role of ATP in cellular signaling. It is particularly valuable in experiments where prolonged activation of purinergic receptors is required, as its resistance to enzymatic breakdown allows for sustained receptor activation. This compound is also used to differentiate between receptor subtypes based on their sensitivity to ATP analogs.

Safety and Handling

As with many biochemical reagents, D-β,γ-Me-ATP should be handled with care. It is important to follow appropriate safety protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment and working in a well-ventilated area. Researchers should consult the material safety data sheet (MSDS) for specific handling instructions.

Also see

• Adenosine triphosphate
• Purinergic receptor
• ATPase
• Nucleotide analogs

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