Glycine tert-butyl ester HCl, with the CAS number 27532-96-3, is a crucial amino acid ester hydrochloride derivative, also known as H-Gly-OtBu·HCl or tert-Butyl glycinate hydrochloride. Its molecular formula is C₆H₁₄ClNO₂, and its molecular weight is 167.63 g/mol. As a protected form of glycine (the simplest amino acid), it features a tert-butyl ester group that protects the carboxyl group, making it a versatile chiral building block and intermediate widely used in pharmaceutical synthesis, peptide chemistry, and organic synthesis.
Physically, Glycine tert-butyl ester HCl presents as a white to off-white crystalline powder or crystalline solid. It has a melting point of 145-148℃ and a boiling point of approximately 190℃ at 760mmHg. It is highly soluble in water and common organic solvents such as methanol, ethanol, and dichloromethane, ensuring good compatibility in various reaction systems. It is optically inactive due to the absence of chiral centers and remains stable under normal temperature and pressure when stored properly.
Chemically, the hydrochloride salt form enhances its stability and solubility compared to the free ester form, while the tert-butyl ester group can be easily removed under mild acidic conditions without affecting other functional groups. This characteristic makes it ideal for peptide synthesis, where it acts as a carboxyl-protected glycine monomer, enabling controlled formation of peptide bonds and facilitating the synthesis of complex peptides and proteins.
Its core applications focus on the pharmaceutical and fine chemical industries. It serves as a key intermediate for synthesizing various drugs, including antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and cardiovascular medications. In peptide chemistry, it is widely used in the preparation of bioactive peptides, enzyme inhibitors, and peptide-based drugs. Additionally, it is utilized in organic synthesis for preparing fine chemicals, cosmetics, and biochemical reagents, supporting research and production in multiple fields.
Safety-wise, it is classified as a mild irritant; contact with skin, eyes, or respiratory tract may cause slight discomfort. Proper protective equipment, such as gloves and goggles, is recommended during handling. It should be stored in a sealed, cool, dry, and dark environment at 2-8℃, away from strong oxidants and moisture, to prevent degradation and moisture absorption. With its excellent reactivity and protective properties, it is an indispensable intermediate in high-value chemical and pharmaceutical applications.