Dulcitol: Versatile Sugar Alcohol for Advanced Biomedical Research
1. Molecular Identity
- Chemical Name: (2R,3S,4R,5S)-Hexane-1,2,3,4,5,6-hexol
- CAS Number: 608-66-2
- Molecular Formula: C6H14O6
- Source: Naturally occurring in various plants, particularly in Madagascar aloe and Euonymus species
2. Biochemical Significance
Dulcitol, also known as galactitol, is a sugar alcohol with diverse biological activities. Its unique molecular structure contributes to its potential applications in metabolic studies, osmotic regulation, and as a sweetening agent, making it a compound of significant interest in pharmaceutical research and food science.
3. Key Properties of Dulcitol
- Osmotic Agent: Demonstrates ability to regulate fluid balance
- Sweetener: Exhibits sweetening properties with low caloric value
- Metabolic Marker: Shows potential as a biomarker for certain metabolic disorders
- Cryoprotectant: Indicates efficacy in preserving biological materials
4. Potential Research Applications
- Metabolic disorder studies, particularly galactosemia
- Osmotic regulation in pharmaceutical formulations
- Food science and sweetener development
- Cryopreservation techniques in biotechnology
5. Current Research Focus
Ongoing studies are investigating Dulcitol’s effects on:
- Galactose metabolism and related enzymatic pathways
- Osmotic properties in various pharmaceutical preparations
- Potential applications in low-calorie food products
- Cryoprotective mechanisms in cell and tissue preservation
6. Formulation Challenges and Innovations
Researchers are actively working on:
- Developing stable formulations for various applications
- Enhancing solubility and compatibility in different matrices
- Exploring synergistic combinations with other sweeteners or excipients
7. Regulatory Considerations
Dulcitol (608-66-2) is primarily used in research settings and as a food additive in some countries. Its development for specific therapeutic applications would require comprehensive safety and efficacy evaluations to meet regulatory standards.
8. Future Research Directions
The scientific community anticipates:
- Advanced studies on Dulcitol’s role in galactose metabolism disorders
- Exploration of its potential in novel pharmaceutical formulations
- Investigation of its long-term effects as a low-calorie sweetener
9. Collaborative Opportunities
We invite metabolic researchers, food scientists, pharmaceutical formulators, and academic institutions to explore the research potential of Dulcitol. For inquiries, collaborations, or to discuss how this compound can benefit your research projects, please contact us at sales@nstchemicals.com.
Join us in advancing biomedical and food science research with Dulcitol – a versatile sugar alcohol at the forefront of metabolic studies and sweetener innovations.