3-Hydroxyphenylacetic Acid (CAS 621-37-4)

3-Hydroxyphenylacetic Acid (3-HPA) is an organic compound, a derivative of phenylacetic acid, characterized by the presence of a hydroxyl group attached to the benzene ring at the meta position relative to the acetic acid side chain. This structural feature imparts distinctive chemical properties to 3-Hydroxyphenylacetic Acid, such as increased polarity and reactivity compared to its parent compound, phenylacetic acid. In research applications, 3-Hydroxyphenylacetic Acid serves as a pivotal molecule for studying aromatic compound metabolism within various biological systems. Its role is particularly emphasized in investigations related to the breakdown and synthesis pathways of phenolic compounds, offering insights into microbial degradation processes and the biosynthesis of complex natural products. As a versatile intermediate, 3-Hydroxyphenylacetic Acid is also utilized in the synthesis of more complex chemical entities, enabling the exploration of novel compounds with potential applications in various fields of chemical research. This compound, therefore, not only aids in the elucidation of metabolic pathways but also facilitates the development of synthetic methodologies and the discovery of new molecules.