2-Amino-3,4,8-trimethyl-3H-imidazo[4,5-f]quinoxaline (CAS 95896-78-9)

2-Amino-3,4,8-trimethyl-3H-imidazo[4,5-f]quinoxaline (ATQ) is a heterocyclic aromatic compound found to be associated with the formation of carcinogenic/mutagenic heterocyclic amines in fried beef steak. Within the realm of scientific research, 2-Amino-3,4,8-trimethyl-3H-imidazo[4,5-f]quinoxaline has demonstrated a broad range of applications. As a derivative of the quinoxaline family, known for their electron-donating properties, 2-Amino-3,4,8-trimethyl-3H-imidazo[4,5-f]quinoxaline has been employed in various capacities, including as a fluorescent dye, a fluorescent probe, and a reporter molecule. In scientific research, 2-Amino-3,4,8-trimethyl-3H-imidazo[4,5-f]quinoxaline has been utilized extensively as a fluorescent dye, leveraging its strong fluorescence and its capacity to interact with specific proteins and enzymes. This characteristic makes it an invaluable tool for studying the structure, dynamics, and function of these molecules. Additionally, 2-Amino-3,4,8-trimethyl-3H-imidazo[4,5-f]quinoxaline has found use as a fluorescent probe, facilitating investigations into the intricate workings of proteins. Moreover, in studies pertaining to gene expression and protein-protein interactions, 2-Amino-3,4,8-trimethyl-3H-imidazo[4,5-f]quinoxaline has served as a reporter molecule. The precise mechanism of action of 2-Amino-3,4,8-trimethyl-3H-imidazo[4,5-f]quinoxaline is not yet fully understood, but it is believed to interact with the amino acid tryptophan and the enzyme cytochrome P450. Furthermore, 2-Amino-3,4,8-trimethyl-3H-imidazo[4,5-f]quinoxaline exhibits interactions with other proteins and enzymes, including thioredoxin reductase and glutathione reductase. As a consequence, it has been discovered to inhibit the activity of certain enzymes, such as thioredoxin reductase and glutathione reductase. Notably, 2-Amino-3,4,8-trimethyl-3H-imidazo[4,5-f]quinoxaline has also demonstrated the ability to modulate the expression of specific genes, particularly those involved in apoptosis and cell cycle regulation. In addition to its diverse molecular interactions, 2-Amino-3,4,8-trimethyl-3H-imidazo[4,5-f]quinoxaline has exhibited anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.