Glutaric acid

Glutaric acid

Glutaric acid is a simple five-carbon linear dicarboxylic acid which is classified under the organic compounds. It is also known by its IUPAC name, Pentanedioic acid. Glutaric acid is naturally produced in the human body during the metabolism of some amino acids, including lysine and tryptophan.

Chemical Structure and Properties

Glutaric acid has a chemical formula of C5H8O4. It is a white crystalline solid that is soluble in water, ethanol, and ether. The compound has two carboxyl groups (-COOH) at each end of its five-carbon chain. The presence of these carboxyl groups makes glutaric acid a dicarboxylic acid.

Production

Glutaric acid can be produced synthetically by the ring-opening of butyrolactone with potassium cyanide to give diethyl glutarate. This is then followed by hydrolysis. In the human body, it is produced during the metabolism of certain amino acids, including lysine and tryptophan.

Uses

Glutaric acid is used in the production of polyesters and alkyd resins, which are used in coatings and paints. It is also used as a building block in the production of various drugs, and as a pH regulator in the dyeing of wool and silk.

Health Effects

In humans, a buildup of glutaric acid can lead to a rare metabolic disorder known as Glutaric aciduria. This condition can cause serious neurological damage and physical abnormalities, particularly in infants.

See Also

• Dicarboxylic acid
• Organic compound
• Amino acid
• Glutaric aciduria