Sodium orthovanadate

Sodium orthovanadate is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula Na₃VO₄. It is often used as a phosphatase inhibitor in biochemistry and molecular biology research. Sodium orthovanadate acts by inhibiting enzymes that remove phosphate groups from proteins, which is a critical process in many signaling pathways within cells.

Properties

Sodium orthovanadate is a colorless to yellow crystalline powder that is soluble in water and forms a strongly alkaline solution. It can exist in several hydrated forms. When dissolved in water, it can partially convert to vanadate ions, which are the active form for most of its biochemical applications.

Preparation

Sodium orthovanadate is typically prepared by the reaction of vanadium pentoxide (V₂O₅) with sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃) or sodium hydroxide (NaOH) in an aqueous solution. The reaction yields a solution of sodium orthovanadate, which can then be crystallized or precipitated out.

Applications

Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

In the field of biochemistry and molecular biology, sodium orthovanadate is primarily used as a phosphatase inhibitor. It is particularly effective against tyrosine phosphatases, which are enzymes that remove phosphate groups from the amino acid tyrosine on proteins. By inhibiting these enzymes, sodium orthovanadate can help to preserve the phosphorylation state of proteins, which is crucial for studying cell signaling and protein function.

Other Uses

Beyond its use in research, sodium orthovanadate has also been explored for its potential in various industrial and environmental applications, such as catalysis and the inhibition of corrosion in steel.

Safety

Sodium orthovanadate is considered hazardous and can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. It should be handled with appropriate safety precautions, including the use of personal protective equipment. Ingestion or inhalation of sodium orthovanadate can be toxic, and it should be used only in well-ventilated areas or under a chemical fume hood.

See Also

• Vanadium
• Phosphatase
• Protein phosphorylation
• Signal transduction