Glycylglycine, with the CAS number 556-50-3, is the simplest naturally occurring dipeptide, composed of two glycine molecules linked by a peptide bond, also known as Gly-Gly or diglycine. Its molecular formula is C₄H₈N₂O₃, and its molecular weight is 132.12 g/mol. As a non-chiral dipeptide (due to the absence of chiral centers in glycine), it features excellent water solubility, high stability, and good biocompatibility, making it widely applied in biochemistry, pharmaceuticals, food, and cosmetic industries.
Physically, Glycylglycine appears as a white to off-white crystalline powder or granular solid. It has a melting point of approximately 240-245℃ (decomposition) and is highly soluble in water, forming a clear and stable aqueous solution, while it is slightly soluble in methanol and ethanol, and insoluble in non-polar solvents. It is optically inactive due to the lack of chiral carbon atoms, and has low hygroscopicity, remaining stable under normal temperature and pressure when stored properly, which facilitates easy handling and transportation.
Chemically, it contains a peptide bond, two amino groups, and one carboxyl group, which are the key functional groups determining its properties. The peptide bond structure gives it good stability in neutral and weakly acidic environments, but it can be hydrolyzed under strong acid, strong alkali, or high-temperature conditions to release two glycine molecules. Its simple structure and high reactivity make it an ideal model compound for studying peptide chemistry and enzyme-catalyzed hydrolysis reactions.
Its core applications cover multiple fields. In biochemistry research, it is widely used as a biochemical reagent, serving as a buffer component (especially in pH 7.0-8.0 range), a model substrate for peptidease activity assays, and an additive in cell culture media to promote cell growth. In the pharmaceutical industry, it acts as an intermediate for synthesizing peptide drugs, nutritional supplements, and amino acid-based pharmaceuticals, and is also used to adjust the pH of drug formulations.
In the food industry, it serves as a nutritional additive and flavor enhancer, improving the nutritional value and taste of food products such as beverages, condiments, and processed foods. In cosmetics, it is added to skin care products to nourish the skin and maintain skin moisture balance. Safety-wise, it is generally recognized as safe (GRAS), non-toxic and non-irritating under normal handling. It should be stored in a sealed, cool, dry, and dark environment at 2-8℃, away from strong oxidants, moisture, and high temperatures to prevent hydrolysis and degradation. With its versatile applications and excellent properties, it is an indispensable raw material in biochemistry, pharmaceuticals, and daily chemical industries.
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