6-methylisoxanthopterin

6-Methylisoxanthopterin (6-MIT) is a chemical compound that belongs to the class of pteridines. It is a derivative of isoxanthopterin, with a methyl group added at the 6th position. This compound has been studied for its potential applications in biotechnology and medicine, particularly in the field of cancer research.

Structure and Properties

6-Methylisoxanthopterin is a yellow crystalline solid with a molecular formula of C10H8N4O2. It has a molecular weight of 216.20 g/mol. The compound is characterized by its pteridine ring system, which consists of two fused six-membered rings, one of which is a pyrimidine ring and the other is a pyrazine ring.

Synthesis

The synthesis of 6-Methylisoxanthopterin involves the methylation of isoxanthopterin at the 6th position. This is typically achieved through a reaction with a methylating agent, such as methyl iodide or dimethyl sulfate, in the presence of a base.

Applications

6-Methylisoxanthopterin has been studied for its potential applications in biotechnology and medicine. In particular, it has been investigated as a potential photosensitizer for use in photodynamic therapy (PDT), a treatment method for certain types of cancer. PDT involves the use of a photosensitizer, which is a compound that can absorb light and transfer the energy to other molecules, leading to the generation of reactive oxygen species that can kill cancer cells.

See Also

• Pteridines
• Isoxanthopterin
• Photodynamic therapy