α-Lactose

α-Lactose

α-Lactose, with the CAS number 14641-93-1, is a disaccharide sugar that is anomerically distinct from β-lactose. It is primarily found in milk and dairy products and is known for its role as a source of energy in various biological processes. This compound is significant not only in nutrition but also in food science and biotechnology.

Chemical Identity

• CAS Number: 14641-93-1
• MDL Number: MFCD00150747
• Molecular Formula: C12H22O11
• Molecular Weight: 342.30 g/mol
• EINECS Number: Not specified

Physical and Chemical Properties

1. Appearance: Typically appears as white to off-white crystalline granules or powder, which is odorless and slightly sweet.
2. Boiling Point: Approximately 667.9 ± 55.0 °C at 760 mmHg, indicating high thermal stability.
3. Melting Point: Approximately 238 °C, suggesting that it remains stable under heat.
4. Density: Approximately 1.76 ± 0.1 g/cm³, indicating a relatively high density for an organic compound.
5. Flash Point: Not specified, but its stability suggests low volatility under normal conditions.

Biological Importance

α-Lactose serves several critical functions:

1. Nutritional Source: It is a major carbohydrate found in milk, providing energy for infants and contributing to the dietary intake of lactose in humans and animals.
2. Fermentation Substrate: α-Lactose is utilized by various microorganisms during fermentation processes, leading to the production of dairy products such as yogurt and cheese.
3. Prebiotic Effects: It may have prebiotic properties, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.
4. Metabolism: The body metabolizes lactose through the enzyme lactase, which breaks it down into glucose and galactose for absorption.

Applications

α-Lactose has diverse applications across various industries:

1. Food Industry:
   • Used as a sweetener and filler in food products due to its mild sweetness (approximately 15% as sweet as sucrose).
   • Commonly found in infant formulas and dairy products.
2. Pharmaceuticals:
   • Employed as an excipient in tablet formulations, providing bulk and aiding in the manufacturing process.
   • Used in the production of lactose-free products for individuals with lactose intolerance.
3. Biotechnology:
   • Serves as a substrate in fermentation processes for producing bioactive compounds.
4. Research:
   • Utilized in studies related to carbohydrate metabolism and enzyme activity.

Safety Information

α-Lactose is generally recognized as safe when consumed within normal dietary limits; however, standard laboratory safety practices should be followed when handling the compound:

• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling.
• Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture to maintain stability.

Citations:

1. https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Alpha-Lactose
2. https://www.chemsrc.com/en/cas/14641-93-1_346068.html
3. https://afcdb.ca/compounds/FDB021789
4. https://www.chemicalbook.com/ChemicalProductProperty_EN_CB7177831.htm
5. https://bldpharm.com/products/14641-93-1.html
6. https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/product/ambeedinc/ambh93e4c1b3
7. https://www.medchemexpress.com/%CE%B1-lactose.html
8. https://www.chemscene.com/14641-93-1.html?productObj=CS-0022785