DL-Homocysteine Thiolactone Hydrochloride, with the CAS number 6038-19-3 and EC number 227-923-3, is a cyclic sulfur-containing amino acid hydrochloride derivative, also known as 3-Aminodihydro-2(3H)-thiophenone monohydrochloride. Its molecular formula is C₄H₈ClNOS, and its molecular weight is 153.63 g/mol. Featuring a cyclic thiolactone structure combined with a hydrochloride salt form, it possesses high chemical reactivity, good solubility, and specific biological activities, making it a key intermediate and research reagent in pharmaceutical synthesis, biochemistry, and fine chemical production.
Physically, it appears as a white fine crystalline powder, odorless and stable under normal temperature and pressure. It has a melting point of approximately 199-203℃ (decomposition) and a water solubility of 740.5 g/L at 20℃, being highly soluble in water and slightly soluble in polar organic solvents such as methanol and DMSO, while insoluble in non-polar solvents. It has mild hygroscopicity and remains stable when stored properly, facilitating easy handling, storage, and formulation in various chemical and biological processes.
Chemically, its core thiolactone ring and hydrochloride moiety are key to its properties. The hydrochloride salt form significantly enhances its water solubility and reactivity compared to the free form, while the thiolactone ring can undergo ring-opening reactions under appropriate conditions, enabling it to participate in various organic synthesis reactions. It is stable under neutral and weakly acidic conditions but may decompose under strong alkaline environments or high temperatures.
Its core applications focus on pharmaceutical synthesis and biochemistry research. As a critical intermediate, it is widely used in the synthesis of drugs such as erdosteine and citiolone, as well as homocysteine-related compounds and chiral ligands. In biochemistry research, it is used as a biochemical reagent for studying amino acid metabolism, oxidative stress, and cardiac function mechanisms, and also exhibits root growth inhibition activity toward certain plants.
Safety-wise, it is classified as a GHS07 hazardous substance with mild irritation potential, requiring proper protective equipment during handling. It should be stored in a sealed, cool, dry, and dark environment (2-8℃, inert atmosphere preferred), away from strong oxidants, moisture, and high temperatures to prevent decomposition. With its versatile reactivity and wide application prospects, it is an indispensable raw material in pharmaceutical and life science fields.