The Science Behind Glycine: Chemical Properties and Biological Functions
Glycine (CAS 56-40-6) is a remarkably simple yet profoundly important organic compound, characterized by its chemical formula C2H5NO2 and a molecular weight of 75.07 g/mol. As the simplest amino acid, it possesses both an amino group (-NH2) and a carboxyl group (-COOH) attached to a central alpha-carbon, with a single hydrogen atom serving as its side chain. This unique structure makes it achiral and imparts excellent solubility in water due to its polar nature. Its melting point is around 233 °C (with decomposition), and it exhibits amphoteric properties, acting as both an acid and a base with pKa values of approximately 2.35 and 9.6.
Biologically, Glycine is indispensable. It serves as a fundamental component in the synthesis of proteins, particularly collagen, where it provides flexibility and stability to the triple helix structure. In the central nervous system, Glycine acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter, modulating neural activity in the spinal cord and brainstem. It is also a precursor in the biosynthesis of critical molecules like porphyrins (for heme), purines (for DNA/RNA), and glutathione, an important antioxidant.
Understanding these fundamental chemical and biological properties is key to appreciating Glycine's wide-ranging utility. NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. offers high-quality Glycine, ensuring that its intrinsic properties are preserved for optimal performance in your research and production. We are a reliable supplier in China for all your Glycine needs, providing competitive prices and exceptional service.
Biologically, Glycine is indispensable. It serves as a fundamental component in the synthesis of proteins, particularly collagen, where it provides flexibility and stability to the triple helix structure. In the central nervous system, Glycine acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter, modulating neural activity in the spinal cord and brainstem. It is also a precursor in the biosynthesis of critical molecules like porphyrins (for heme), purines (for DNA/RNA), and glutathione, an important antioxidant.
Understanding these fundamental chemical and biological properties is key to appreciating Glycine's wide-ranging utility. NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. offers high-quality Glycine, ensuring that its intrinsic properties are preserved for optimal performance in your research and production. We are a reliable supplier in China for all your Glycine needs, providing competitive prices and exceptional service.
Perspectives & Insights
Agile Reader One
“As the simplest amino acid, it possesses both an amino group (-NH2) and a carboxyl group (-COOH) attached to a central alpha-carbon, with a single hydrogen atom serving as its side chain.”
Logic Vision Labs
“This unique structure makes it achiral and imparts excellent solubility in water due to its polar nature.”
Molecule Origin 88
“Its melting point is around 233 °C (with decomposition), and it exhibits amphoteric properties, acting as both an acid and a base with pKa values of approximately 2.”