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Names | |
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Preferred IUPAC name (4S)-2-Methyl-3,4,5,6-tetrahydropyrimidine-4-carboxylic acid | |
Other names
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Identifiers | |
3D model (JSmol) | |
ChEBI | |
ChemSpider | |
KEGG | |
PubChem CID | |
UNII | |
CompTox Dashboard (EPA) | |
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Properties | |
C6H10N2O2 | |
Molar mass | 142.158 g·mol−1 |
Appearance | White powder |
Density | 1.568 g/cm3 |
Soluble in water | |
Hazards | |
NFPA 704 (fire diamond) | |
Except where otherwise noted, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C [77 °F], 100 kPa). |
Ectoine (3,4,5,6-tetrahydro-2-methyl-4-pyrimidinecarboxylic acid) is a natural compound found in several species of bacteria. It is a compatible solute which serves as a protective substance by acting as an osmolyte and thus helps organisms survive extreme osmotic stress. [3] Furthermore it was shown to protect DNA against ionizing and ultraviolet radiation serving as a radical scavenger. [4] Ectoine is found in high concentrations in halophilic microorganisms and confers resistance towards salt and temperature stress. Ectoine was first identified in the microorganism Ectothiorhodospira halochloris, [5] [6] but has since been found in a wide range of Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. Other species of bacteria in which ectoine was found include:
Ectoine is synthesized in three successive enzymatic reactions starting from aspartic β-semialdehyde. The genes involved in the biosynthesis are called ectA, ectB and ectC, and they encode the enzymes L-2,4-diaminobutyric acid acetyltransferase, L-2,4-diaminobutyric acid transaminase and L-ectoine synthase, respectively. [8] [7]
Ectoine is used as an active ingredient in skin care and sun protection products. [13] It stabilizes proteins and other cellular structures and protects the skin from stresses like UV irradiation and dryness. [7]
Due to its protein stabilizing properties, ectoine has been evaluated as a topical treatment for hay fever. Effectiveness of a nasal spray containing ectoine is comparable to cromoglycate and is reported to be well tolerated by the patients. [14] It is available over the counter in the European Union.