Tributyrin

Tributyrin

Chemical structure of Tributyrin

Tributyrin is a triglyceride that is composed of three molecules of butyric acid and one molecule of glycerol. It is a naturally occurring compound found in butter and is used in various industrial and medical applications due to its unique properties.

Chemical Properties

Tributyrin is a colorless to pale yellow liquid at room temperature. It is soluble in organic solvents but has limited solubility in water. The chemical formula of tributyrin is C₁₅H₂₆O₆, and it has a molecular weight of 302.36 g/mol.

Biological Role

In the human body, tributyrin is metabolized to release butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid that plays a crucial role in gut health. Butyrate is known to be a primary energy source for colonocytes and has anti-inflammatory properties. It is also involved in the regulation of gene expression and cell differentiation.

Industrial Applications

Tributyrin is used in the food industry as a flavoring agent due to its buttery taste. It is also used in the production of biodegradable plastics and as a solvent in the manufacture of pharmaceuticals.

Medical Applications

In medicine, tributyrin is studied for its potential therapeutic effects. It is being researched for its ability to deliver butyrate to the colon, which may help in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease and other gastrointestinal disorders. Tributyrin is also being investigated for its potential role in cancer therapy, as butyrate has been shown to induce apoptosis in certain cancer cell lines.

Related Pages

• Butyric acid
• Triglyceride
• Short-chain fatty acid
• Colonocyte