L-Mannitol (CAS 643-01-6)

L-Mannitol is a sugar alcohol derived from mannose, widely used in scientific research due to its unique chemical properties and roles in various biological processes. It serves as an osmolyte, influencing osmotic pressure in cells and tissues, which is particularly valuable in studies involving cellular hydration and osmotic stress responses. In biochemical research, L-Mannitol is used as a substrate to investigate the activity of enzymes such as mannitol dehydrogenase and mannitol-1-phosphate dehydrogenase, which play critical roles in mannitol metabolism. Additionally, L-Mannitol is employed in structural biology and crystallography as a cryoprotectant, protecting biological samples from damage during freezing. Its ability to form hydrogen bonds and stabilize proteins and nucleic acids makes it a useful additive in protein crystallization and other structural studies. L-Mannitol is also used in studying plant physiology, particularly in the context of stress responses. Plants accumulate mannitol as a compatible solute to counteract osmotic stress, and research on this compound helps explain mechanisms of stress tolerance and adaptation. Moreover, L-Mannitol′s inert and non-reactive nature makes it an ideal control substance in various experimental setups, ensuring that observed effects are due to the experimental variables rather than the compound itself. Overall, L-Mannitol is a versatile tool in biochemical and physiological research, contributing to our understanding of enzyme function, structural biology, and stress physiology.