Tranexamic acid, identified by the CAS number 1197 - 18 - 8, is a well - known and widely used chemical compound with significant applications in various fields, especially in medicine and cosmetics. As a supplier of Tranexamic acid, I am excited to delve into its chemical structure, properties, and the implications of its unique molecular arrangement.
Chemical Structure of Tranexamic Acid
Tranexamic acid has a relatively straightforward chemical structure. Its systematic name is trans - 4 - (aminomethyl) cyclohexanecarboxylic acid. The core of its structure consists of a cyclohexane ring, which is a six - membered carbon ring with all single bonds between the carbon atoms, conferring a certain degree of stability.
On one side of the cyclohexane ring, there is a carboxylic acid group (-COOH). This functional group is acidic in nature and can participate in a variety of chemical reactions. It can form salts with bases, which is often important in the formulation of drugs. For example, when reacting with sodium hydroxide, it forms the sodium salt of tranexamic acid, which may have different solubility and stability properties compared to the free acid form.
On the opposite side of the cyclohexane ring, in the trans - configuration, there is an aminomethyl group (-CH₂NH₂). The amino group (-NH₂) is basic and can accept a proton (H⁺) to form a positively charged ammonium ion (-NH₃⁺). This basicity allows tranexamic acid to interact with acidic substances and also plays a role in its biological activity.
The trans - configuration of the substituents on the cyclohexane ring is crucial. It gives the molecule a specific three - dimensional shape, which affects its binding to target molecules in biological systems. In contrast, the cis - isomer would have a different spatial arrangement of the carboxylic acid and aminomethyl groups, potentially leading to different physical, chemical, and biological properties.
Physical and Chemical Properties
The unique chemical structure of tranexamic acid imparts several important physical and chemical properties. It is a white crystalline powder at room temperature, which is relatively stable under normal storage conditions. It has a melting point of around 233 - 235 °C.
In terms of solubility, tranexamic acid is sparingly soluble in water. However, its solubility can be improved by adjusting the pH of the solution. In acidic solutions, the amino group becomes protonated, increasing the overall polarity of the molecule and thus enhancing its solubility in water. In basic solutions, the carboxylic acid group can be deprotonated, also affecting its solubility behavior.
Tranexamic acid is relatively resistant to oxidation and hydrolysis under normal conditions. This stability makes it suitable for long - term storage and use in various formulations. However, like many organic compounds, it can react with strong oxidizing agents or under extreme pH conditions.
Biological Activity and Mechanism of Action
The chemical structure of tranexamic acid is closely related to its biological activity. It is a synthetic derivative of the amino acid lysine. The aminomethyl group on the cyclohexane ring mimics the side - chain structure of lysine, which is important for its mechanism of action.
Tranexamic acid acts as an antifibrinolytic agent. In the human body, the process of blood clotting and clot dissolution (fibrinolysis) is a delicate balance. Fibrinolysis is mediated by an enzyme called plasmin, which breaks down fibrin, the protein that forms the framework of blood clots. Tranexamic acid binds to the lysine - binding sites on plasminogen, the precursor of plasmin. By occupying these sites, tranexamic acid prevents the conversion of plasminogen to plasmin, thereby inhibiting fibrinolysis and promoting blood clot stability.
In addition to its role in hemostasis, tranexamic acid has also shown potential in other areas. In cosmetics, it has been used for its anti - pigmentation effects. It is thought to inhibit the activity of tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in the production of melanin. The specific chemical structure of tranexamic acid allows it to interact with the active site of tyrosinase, reducing its ability to catalyze the conversion of tyrosine to melanin, thus helping to lighten the skin and reduce the appearance of dark spots.
Comparison with Related Compounds
To better understand the significance of tranexamic acid's chemical structure, it is useful to compare it with related compounds. For example, lysine, the natural amino acid from which tranexamic acid is derived, has a linear structure with an amino group and a carboxylic acid group separated by a chain of carbon atoms. In contrast, tranexamic acid's cyclohexane ring gives it a more rigid and compact structure, which may affect its binding affinity to target molecules.
Another related compound is epsilon - aminocaproic acid (EACA), which also has antifibrinolytic activity. EACA has a linear structure with an amino group and a carboxylic acid group separated by a six - carbon chain. While both EACA and tranexamic acid act as antifibrinolytic agents, tranexamic acid is generally considered to be more potent. This difference in potency can be attributed to its chemical structure, specifically the trans - configuration of the substituents on the cyclohexane ring, which may allow for a more favorable interaction with plasminogen.
Our Offerings as a Supplier
As a supplier of Tranexamic acid (CAS NO. 1197 - 18 - 8), we are committed to providing high - quality products. Our tranexamic acid is produced through a strict manufacturing process, ensuring its purity and stability. We have a comprehensive quality control system in place, which includes testing for impurities, chemical composition, and physical properties.
In addition to Tranexamic acid, we also offer other related cosmetic raw materials. For instance, we supply Ceramides Mixture Ⅲ;CAS NO.100403 - 19 - 8, which plays a crucial role in maintaining the skin's barrier function. Ceramides Mixture Ⅲ helps to prevent moisture loss from the skin and protect it from external environmental factors.
Another product in our portfolio is (S) - Pro - xylane; CAS NO.: 868156 - 46 - 1. This compound is known for its anti - aging properties. It can stimulate the production of glycosaminoglycans in the skin, which helps to improve skin elasticity and firmness.
We also offer Ascorbyl Palmitate；CAS NO.137 - 66 - 6, a stable form of vitamin C. Ascorbyl palmitate is a powerful antioxidant that can protect the skin from oxidative stress, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and brighten the skin tone.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the chemical structure of tranexamic acid, with its cyclohexane ring, carboxylic acid group, and aminomethyl group in the trans - configuration, is the key to its unique physical, chemical, and biological properties. Its role as an antifibrinolytic agent in medicine and its potential in cosmetics make it a valuable compound.
If you are interested in purchasing Tranexamic acid or any of our other cosmetic raw materials, please feel free to contact us for more information and to start a procurement discussion. We are dedicated to meeting your needs and providing you with the best products and services.
References
- Rang, H. P., Dale, M. M., Ritter, J. M., & Moore, P. K. (2015). Rang & Dale's Pharmacology. Elsevier.
- Lodish, H., Berk, A., Kaiser, C. A., Krieger, M., Bretscher, A., Ploegh, H., & Matsudaira, P. (2016). Molecular Cell Biology. W. H. Freeman.
- Cosmetic Chemistry: Science and Technology, Third Edition. Edited by P. Romanowski and D. J. Dowling. CRC Press.