Methyl Pyruvate (CAS: 600-22-6):

Methyl pyruvate, with the chemical identifier CAS number 600-22-6, is a compound consisting of pyruvate (the ionized form of pyruvic acid) with a methoxy group (-OCH₃) attached to the carbonyl carbon.

Detailed Information on Methyl Pyruvate (CAS: 600-22-6):

• IUPAC Name: Methyl 2-oxopropanoate
• Molecular Formula: C₄H₆O₃
• Molecular Weight: 118.09 g/mol
• Synonyms:
  • Methyl 2-oxopropanoate
  • Methyl pyruvate
  • Methyl α-ketoacetate
  • 2-Oxo-2-methylpropanoic acid methyl ester

Structure:

Methyl pyruvate consists of a methyl ester of pyruvic acid, where the hydrogen atom of the hydroxyl group (-OH) on the alpha-carbon is replaced by a methoxy group (-OCH₃).

The structure is:

• A methyl group (-CH₃) attached to a carbonyl group (-C=O), which is further connected to another carbon that is part of a carboxylate group (C–COOH), where the carboxyl group is esterified with a methoxy group (-OCH₃).

Uses:

• Metabolic Research: As an ester of pyruvic acid, methyl pyruvate is often used in studies related to cell metabolism, especially in mitochondrial and energy production research.
• Cell Permeability: Because methyl pyruvate is more lipophilic than pyruvic acid, it can cross cell membranes more easily. This makes it useful in experiments where pyruvate's action inside cells needs to be studied.
• Potential Therapeutic Applications: Some studies have looked into its role in improving mitochondrial function and energy production, particularly in contexts where oxidative stress is a concern.

Properties:

• Solubility: Methyl pyruvate is relatively soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol and acetone, but it has limited water solubility.
• Stability: Methyl pyruvate is stable under standard laboratory conditions but should be kept away from strong acids and bases to prevent hydrolysis (which would yield pyruvic acid and methanol).

Safety:

• Methyl pyruvate is considered relatively low in toxicity but should be handled with appropriate safety protocols such as wearing gloves, goggles, and using it in well-ventilated areas.