α-Cyclodextrin hydrate

α-Cyclodextrin hydrate

α-Cyclodextrin hydrate, with the CAS number 51211-51-9, is a cyclic oligosaccharide composed of six glucose units linked by α-1,4-glycosidic bonds. This compound is recognized for its unique molecular structure and versatile applications across various industries, including pharmaceuticals, food, and cosmetics.

Chemical Identity

• CAS Number: 51211-51-9
• MDL Number: MFCD00150804
• Molecular Formula: C36H60O30·H2O
• Molecular Weight: 990.86 g/mol
• EINECS Number: Not specified

Physical and Chemical Properties

1. Appearance: Typically a white to off-white powder or crystalline solid.
2. Boiling Point: Approximately 1410.8°C at 760 mmHg, indicating high thermal stability.
3. Melting Point: About 278°C, which suggests that it remains stable under various processing conditions.
4. Solubility: Highly soluble in water, making it suitable for applications requiring aqueous formulations.

Structural Characteristics

α-Cyclodextrin has a unique cylindrical shape with a hydrophilic exterior and a hydrophobic interior cavity. This structure allows it to form inclusion complexes with various guest molecules, effectively encapsulating them within its cavity. The presence of hydroxyl groups on its surface contributes to its solubility and reactivity.

Biological Activities

α-Cyclodextrin hydrate exhibits several beneficial properties:

1. Drug Delivery: It enhances the solubility and stability of hydrophobic drugs, facilitating their delivery in pharmaceutical formulations.
2. Taste Masking: In the food industry, it can mask unpleasant tastes and odors of certain ingredients, improving overall product acceptability.
3. Nutritional Enhancement: As a soluble dietary fiber, α-cyclodextrin can contribute to improved lipid profiles and weight management in food products.
4. Stabilization of Labile Compounds: It helps stabilize sensitive compounds in pharmaceuticals and food products by protecting them from degradation.

Applications

α-Cyclodextrin hydrate is widely used in various sectors:

1. Pharmaceuticals: Utilized for drug formulation to improve bioavailability and stability of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs).
2. Food Industry: Employed as a food additive to enhance flavor profiles, improve texture, and act as a dietary fiber supplement.
3. Cosmetics: Used in cosmetic formulations for its ability to stabilize fragrances and other sensitive ingredients.
4. Research: Serves as a model compound in studies related to inclusion chemistry and host–guest interactions.

Synthesis and Production

α-Cyclodextrin is typically produced through the enzymatic degradation of starch using cyclodextrin glycosyltransferase (CGTase). This process involves liquefying starch from sources such as corn or potatoes before enzymatic conversion occurs.

Safety Information

While α-cyclodextrin hydrate is generally regarded as safe for use in food and pharmaceuticals, standard safety precautions should be observed:

• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling the compound.
• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain stability and efficacy.

Citations:

1. https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlehtml/2019/ra/c9ra08710a
2. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%CE%91-Cyclodextrin
3. https://www.chemicalbook.com/article/-cyclodextrin-structure-properties-and-applications-review.htm
4. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S002196142400154X
5. https://www.mdpi.com/2673-4176/3/1/1
6. https://www.biomol.com/products/chemicals/biochemicals/alpha-cyclodextrin-hydrate-cay31219-10
7. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0378517398002099
8. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7866268/