N-6-Trifluoroacetyl-L-lysine, cataloged under CAS number 10009-20-8, is a chemical compound of significant interest in various scientific disciplines. Its molecular formula, C8H13F3N2O3, and a molecular weight of 242.2 g/mol define its basic chemical identity. As an amino acid derivative, it retains the core structure of L-lysine but features a trifluoroacetyl group attached to the epsilon-amino nitrogen. This modification imparts unique chemical properties that distinguish it from its parent compound, making it a valuable reagent for specialized applications.

The physical characteristics of N-6-Trifluoroacetyl-L-lysine are crucial for its handling and application. Typically appearing as a white to off-white powder, it has a defined melting point, often reported around 258°C, sometimes with decomposition. Its solubility profile is also noteworthy; it is generally soluble in acidic aqueous solutions, such as 2 M HCl, where it appears as a clear, colorless solution. Proper storage conditions are essential to maintain its integrity, with recommendations typically advising storage in a cool, dry, and dark place, often refrigerated at 2-8°C. Adhering to these storage guidelines ensures the compound's stability and efficacy for research purposes.

From a research perspective, N-6-Trifluoroacetyl-L-lysine holds importance in several key areas. Firstly, its structure as a trifluoroacetylated lysine makes it a useful building block in organic synthesis, particularly for creating modified peptides or other complex organic molecules. The trifluoroacetyl group can serve as a protecting group or as a moiety that influences the molecule's overall properties, such as lipophilicity or electronic character. This makes it an attractive intermediate for developing new pharmaceuticals or functional materials.

Secondly, and perhaps more significantly in biological research, N-6-Trifluoroacetyl-L-lysine has been identified as a cysteine conjugate metabolite. This discovery highlights its role in cellular metabolism and xenobiotic processing. As a metabolite, it can be used in studies aimed at understanding drug metabolism, toxicokinetics, and the mechanisms of adduct formation with proteins. For instance, antibodies raised against halothane metabolite adducts have been used in conjunction with this compound to investigate specific mitochondrial protein modifications. Researchers can purchase N-6-Trifluoroacetyl-L-lysine to conduct these in-depth studies, contributing to a deeper understanding of biological processes and disease mechanisms. The availability of this compound through various chemical suppliers, with specifications on purity and packaging, supports its widespread use in research laboratories.

The demand for well-characterized chemical reagents like N-6-Trifluoroacetyl-L-lysine is a testament to the ongoing advancements in chemical and biological sciences. Scientists seeking this compound can find detailed technical data, safety information, and purchasing options from numerous chemical manufacturers and distributors. Understanding the comprehensive properties and established research applications of N-6-Trifluoroacetyl-L-lysine is vital for leveraging its full potential in experimental designs. Whether for synthetic chemistry or metabolic investigations, this compound remains a valuable asset in the modern scientific toolkit.