D-Threonine, with the CAS number 632-20-2, is a naturally occurringD-amino acid with the molecular formula C₄H₉NO₃ and a molecular weight of 119.12 g/mol. It is the D-enantiomer of L-threonine, one of the essential amino acids for humans. Unlike its L-isomer, D-threonine is not directly incorporated into mammalian proteins, but it plays a unique and valuable role in biochemistry, industry, and agriculture.
Physically, D-threonine appears as a white or almost white crystalline powder. It is freely soluble in water, with a solubility of approximately 24 g/100 mL at 25°C, and slightly soluble in ethanol. It is optically active, with a specific rotation [α]₂₀/D of +26.0° to +29.0°. Chemically, it is stable under normal conditions but should be protected from strong oxidizing agents.
D-Threonine's primary applications lie in the pharmaceutical and fine chemical industries. It is a key intermediate in the synthesis of several important drugs. For example, it is used in the production of Thiorphan, a potent inhibitor of neutral endopeptidase (NEP) which is being investigated for the treatment of heart failure and hypertension. It is also a building block for the synthesis of various peptides, enzyme inhibitors, and antibiotics.
In the food and feed industry, D-threonine serves as a chiral auxiliary and a nutrient supplement. It is used in the production of speciality food products and as a component in animal feed to enhance the nutritional profile, particularly for monogastric animals.
Furthermore, D-threonine has gained attention in the field of green chemistry and materials science. It can be used as a monomer in the preparation of biodegradable polymers, such as polyamides and polyesters, which exhibit good mechanical properties and biocompatibility. These materials have potential applications in tissue engineering, drug delivery systems, and environmentally friendly packaging.
Safety-wise, D-threonine is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for its intended uses. It is non-toxic and non-irritating. However, as with all fine chemicals, proper handling, storage, and disposal procedures should be followed to prevent environmental contamination.
In summary, D-threonine (CAS 632-20-2) is a versatile D-amino acid with significant value as a synthetic intermediate, a chiral building block, and a component in high-value materials. Its unique properties make it an important ingredient in the pharmaceutical, agricultural, and advanced materials sectors.