Ningbo Inno Pharmchem Co., Ltd. is pleased to share insights into the chemistry and significance of 7-dehydrocholesterol, identified by CAS number 434-16-2. This compound, a derivative of cholesterol, possesses unique chemical characteristics that underpin its vital biological functions and make it a sought-after chemical for various scientific and industrial applications.

Chemically, 7-dehydrocholesterol is a sterol characterized by the presence of two double bonds in its B ring: one at the Δ5 position (shared with cholesterol) and an additional one at the Δ7 position. This Δ7 double bond is crucial, distinguishing it from cholesterol and enabling its unique biochemical transformations. Its chemical formula is C27H44O, and it typically appears as a white solid. Key physical properties include a melting point in the range of 148-152 °C and low solubility in water, a common trait for sterols. Its optical activity, with an alpha value of -116º (C=1, CHCL3), is also a significant characteristic noted in its specifications. For handling and storage, it's often recommended to keep it at -20°C due to its susceptibility to oxidation.

The significance of these chemical properties is directly linked to its biological roles. The Δ7 double bond is the reactive site that allows 7-dehydrocholesterol to act as a provitamin D3. Upon exposure to ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation, this bond facilitates a photochemical ring-opening reaction, initiating the synthesis of Vitamin D3. This process is fundamental to human health, impacting calcium metabolism and bone integrity. Researchers looking to buy 7-dehydrocholesterol for Vitamin D studies or related photochemical research rely on its precise chemical structure.

Furthermore, as a cholesterol biosynthesis intermediate, the chemical structure of 7-dehydrocholesterol allows it to be a direct substrate for the enzyme DHCR7, which catalyzes its conversion to cholesterol. This positions it centrally in the regulation of cellular cholesterol levels, impacting everything from cell membrane fluidity to the synthesis of steroid hormones. Its role in metabolic pathways also makes it a subject of interest in conditions like Smith-Lemli-Opitz Syndrome (SLOS), where its metabolic fate is altered.

The market demand for 7-dehydrocholesterol, especially as a pharmaceutical intermediate, is driven by its diverse applications in research and development. Ningbo Inno Pharmchem Co., Ltd. is a leading supplier, ensuring that the chemical integrity and purity of 7-dehydrocholesterol meet the rigorous standards required by the scientific community. By providing this essential compound, we support critical research in endocrinology, biochemistry, and genetics.