Technical Review Explores 2methylresorcinol Research Applications
2-Methylresorcinol, an aromatic phenolic compound with the CAS registry number 608-25-3, is used in organic synthesis and biochemical interaction research. Its phenolic structure and solubility profile make it a subject of laboratory interest, according to published property data. The compound is a solid powder that is soluble in water and methanol.
Core physicochemical properties and specifications
2-Methylresorcinol is described as a solid powder with good water solubility and methanol solubility, allowing it to be used across various solvent systems. Its key physical and chemical parameters are listed below.
| Parameter | Value or description |
|---|---|
| CAS number | 608-25-3 |
| Appearance | Solid powder |
| Melting point | 114–120°C |
| Boiling point | 264°C (lit.) |
| Water solubility | 140 mg/mL (20°C) |
| Density | 0.77 g/cm³ (20°C) |
| Refractive index | n20/D 1.60 |
| Predicted pKa | 9.8 |
The reported water solubility of about 140 mg/mL at 20°C supports the preparation of experimental solutions at different concentrations. The compound is also soluble in methanol.
Applications and biological interactions
In chemical synthesis, 2-methylresorcinol is often used as a precursor for aromatic benziporphyrins. The phenolic hydroxyl groups in its molecular structure give it strong chemical reactivity and allow it to take part in complex molecular construction processes.
In biochemical research, studies have focused on its interactions with proteins and other biological macromolecules through hydrogen bonding and electrostatic interactions. Reported areas of study include:
- Protein interactions: The compound can interact with amino acid residues in proteins, affecting enzyme activity.
- Signal pathway research: It is thought to interact with enzymes and proteins involved in cellular signal transduction pathways.
- Gene regulation research: It has potential use in binding studies involving transcriptional regulation proteins and may form complexes with DNA.
These properties have made the compound a research tool in studies of enzyme activity, signal transduction and transcriptional regulation.
Storage and safety considerations
2-Methylresorcinol should be stored at room temperature, with containers kept sealed and protected from moisture, according to general handling guidance. Because the compound is used in biological activity research, laboratory work should follow standard chemical safety procedures.
Its German water hazard classification is WGK 3. Operators should consult the safety data sheet for risk assessment and protective measures.
