cis-Aconitic acid (CAS 585-84-2)

Cis-Aconitic acid, a tricarboxylic organic compound, serves as a critical intermediate in the citric acid cycle, a fundamental metabolic pathway found in many organisms. Structurally distinct due to its three carboxyl groups and the cis-configuration of its double bond, this compound arises through the isomerization of citrate to isocitrate, facilitated by the enzyme aconitase. Its unique chemical structure allows it to participate in a variety of biochemical reactions, acting as a pivotal molecule in the conversion processes that generate energy and biosynthetic precursors within cellular metabolism. In research, cis-Aconitic acid is often utilized as a tool to investigate the kinetics and mechanism of the citric acid cycle and the enzyme-catalyzed reactions within. Its role extends into studies focused on plant biochemistry and microbial metabolism, where its presence or alteration can indicate specific pathways or metabolic disturbances. Thus, cis-Aconitic acid not only plays a fundamental role in the biochemistry of living organisms but also serves as a valuable molecule in the exploration of metabolic processes and enzymatic mechanisms.