β-D-Ribofuranose 1,2,3,5-tetraacetate (CAS 13035-61-5)

β-D-Ribofuranose 1,2,3,5-tetraacetate is an acetylated derivative of ribose extensively used in carbohydrate research and synthetic chemistry. This compound features acetyl groups protecting the hydroxyl functionalities at positions 1, 2, 3, and 5 of the ribofuranose ring, which enhances its stability and solubility in organic solvents. β-D-Ribofuranose 1,2,3,5-tetraacetate serves as a crucial intermediate in the synthesis of nucleosides, nucleotides, and other complex carbohydrates. In research, it is utilized to study glycosylation mechanisms, focusing on the formation and stereochemistry of glycosidic bonds. This compound is particularly important in exploring the synthetic pathways of ribonucleotides and their analogs, providing insights into the enzymatic processes involved in nucleic acid metabolism. Researchers employ β-D-Ribofuranose 1,2,3,5-tetraacetate in enzymatic assays to investigate the activity and specificity of glycosyltransferases and glycosidases. Its acetyl-protected form allows for selective deprotection and functionalization, facilitating the construction of various nucleotide analogs and modified sugars used in biochemical and structural studies. Additionally, this compound is instrumental in developing new synthetic methodologies for carbohydrate chemistry, enabling the efficient production of ribose-containing molecules for research in molecular biology and biochemistry. Its role in these applications underscores its significance in advancing the understanding of nucleic acid chemistry and carbohydrate synthesis.