Alpha-Cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid

Alpha-Cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid (also known as α-CHCA or α-cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid) is a chemical compound used in matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry. This compound is a derivative of cinnamic acid and is a common matrix for MALDI mass spectrometry.

Chemical Properties

Alpha-Cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid is a white to off-white crystalline powder. It has a molecular weight of 189.18 g/mol and a melting point of 210-213 °C. The compound is soluble in water, ethanol, and methanol.

Uses

The primary use of alpha-cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid is as a matrix in MALDI mass spectrometry. In this application, the compound helps to ionize the sample and transfer it to the mass spectrometer. This allows for the analysis of large biological molecules, such as proteins and peptides, that would otherwise be difficult to analyze.

Safety

Alpha-Cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid is not considered to be particularly hazardous, but it should be handled with care. It can cause skin and eye irritation, and it may be harmful if swallowed or inhaled.

See Also

• Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization
• Cinnamic acid
• Mass spectrometry