4-Nitrophenylglyoxal (CAS 4974-57-6)

4-Nitrophenylglyoxal (4-NPG) is a highly utilized chemical compound in the realm of scientific research. It presents itself as a yellow crystalline powder that demonstrates solubility in water and organic solvents. Derived from glyoxal, a simple aldehyde with applications in the production of resins, polymers, and various industrial chemicals, 4-Nitrophenylglyoxal offers versatility and finds numerous applications within the domains of biochemical research. In scientific research, 4-Nitrophenylglyoxal is widely employed as a reagent for detecting aldehydes and ketones. By reacting with aldehydes and ketones, it forms Schiff bases, which can be detected through UV spectroscopy or fluorescence analysis. Researchers have harnessed the potential of 4-Nitrophenylglyoxal to investigate the kinetics of aldehyde and ketone reactions, as well as the intricate mechanisms underlying Schiff base formation. Furthermore, it has played a pivotal role in the examination of enzymes′ structure and function involved in catalyzing aldehyde and ketone reactions. The mechanism of action of 4-Nitrophenylglyoxal involves the formation of a Schiff base through a nucleophilic addition-elimination reaction. This occurs between the carbonyl group of an aldehyde or ketone and the hydrazine group of 4-Nitrophenylglyoxal. During this process, a proton is transferred from the hydrazine group to the carbonyl group, resulting in the formation of the Schiff base.