Methyl a-D-galactopyranoside

 α-甲基-D-半乳糖苷

Methyl alpha-D-galactopyranoside is a monosaccharide that belongs to the class of glycopyranosides. It is a white crystalline substance that is soluble in water and ethanol. In this paper, we will discuss the definition, background, physical and chemical properties, synthesis and characterization, analytical methods, biological properties, toxicity and safety, applications in scientific experiments, and the current state of research of methyl alpha-D-galactopyranoside. We will also explore the potential implications of methyl alpha-D-galactopyranoside in various fields of research and industry, limitations and future directions.

Definition and Background

Methyl alpha-D-galactopyranoside is a monosaccharide that consists of a glucose molecule with the hydroxyl group at the first carbon replaced with a methyl group and a hydroxyl group replaced with a galactose molecule. It is also known as methyl galactoside or megalactose. This sugar is found in various plant and animal tissues and plays a crucial role in cell recognition and signaling.

Physical and Chemical Properties

Methyl alpha-D-galactopyranoside is a white crystalline powder with a sweet taste. It is soluble in water and ethanol (1 g/10 mL) but insoluble in chloroform and ether. It has a melting point of 109-110°C. The molecular weight of methyl alpha-D-galactopyranoside is 194.18 g/mol.

Synthesis and Characterization

Methyl alpha-D-galactopyranoside can be synthesized by various methods, including enzymatic synthesis, chemical synthesis, and extraction from natural sources. The most common method is the enzymatic synthesis using galactosidases or beta-galactosidases to catalyze the reaction between lactose and an alcohol.

Analytical Methods

Various analytical methods are available for the detection and quantification of methyl alpha-D-galactopyranoside. These include chromatography techniques such as high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), thin-layer chromatography (TLC), and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS).

Biological Properties

Methyl alpha-D-galactopyranoside has been found to exhibit various biological properties, including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory activities. Studies have also indicated that it can modulate cellular signaling pathways and play a role in cell recognition and adhesion.

Toxicity and Safety in Scientific Experiments

Methyl alpha-D-galactopyranoside is considered safe for use in scientific experiments. However, like other sugars, it can cause gastrointestinal discomfort and should be used in moderation.

Applications in Scientific Experiments

Methyl alpha-D-galactopyranoside has several applications in scientific experiments, including serving as a substrate for the detection of enzyme activity, a ligand for the purification of lectins and other carbohydrate-binding proteins, and a component in culture media for the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms.

Current State of Research

The current state of research on methyl alpha-D-galactopyranoside is focused on exploring its potential in various fields, including biotechnology, biochemistry, and pharmacology. Studies have also focused on its use in the development of vaccines and diagnostic tools.

Potential Implications in Various Fields of Research and Industry

Methyl alpha-D-galactopyranoside has potential implications in various fields of research and industry. It can be used in the development of novel therapeutics, vaccines, and diagnostics. It also has applications in the food and agricultural industry, particularly in the development of prebiotics and functional foods.

Limitations and Future Directions

While research on methyl alpha-D-galactopyranoside has shown promising results, there are several limitations and future directions for further research. One major limitation is the limited availability of the substance, which is currently extracted from natural sources. Further research is needed to develop efficient methods for the synthesis of methyl alpha-D-galactopyranoside. Other future directions include exploring the potential of methyl alpha-D-galactopyranoside in the development of therapeutics for various diseases and identifying its role in cellular signaling pathways.

Future Directions:

1. Development of more efficient methods for the synthesis of methyl alpha-D-galactopyranoside

2. Exploration of the potential of methyl alpha-D-galactopyranoside in the development of therapeutics for various diseases

3. Identification of the role of methyl alpha-D-galactopyranoside in cellular signaling pathways

4. Development of sensitive and specific diagnostic tools based on methyl alpha-D-galactopyranoside

5. Investigation of the antimicrobial and immunomodulatory activities of methyl alpha-D-galactopyranoside

6. Exploration of the efficacy of methyl alpha-D-galactopyranoside in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders

7. Development of food products containing methyl alpha-D-galactopyranoside as a prebiotic.

8. Identification of novel applications of methyl alpha-D-galactopyranoside in various industries.

COA:

Name: Methyl αlpha-D-Galactopyranoside Monohydrate    CAS: 3396-99-4

M.F.: C₇H₁₄O₆.H₂O                      M.W.: 194.18 (as Anhydrous)

Batch No: 20121202                      Quantity: 1.8kg

References:

1. Mulard LA, Kovac P, Glaudemans CP, Carbohydr. Res. 1994, 2, p117-29