Ethyl 2,3,4,6-Tetra-O-acetyl-β-D-thioglucopyranoside (CAS 41670-79-5)

Ethyl 2,3,4,6-Tetra-O-acetyl-β-D-thioglucopyranoside is a chemical compound that has been extensively studied in scientific research, particularly in the field of carbohydrate chemistry and enzymology. Its structure comprises a glucose molecule with four acetyl groups attached to the hydroxyl groups and a thiol group (–SH) replacing the hydroxyl group at the anomeric carbon. This compound is primarily utilized as a substrate analogue for studying the catalytic mechanisms of glycosidases and glycosyltransferases, enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism and biosynthesis. Due to its resemblance to natural substrates, ethyl 2,3,4,6-Tetra-O-acetyl-β-D-thioglucopyranoside serves as an invaluable tool for elucidating the specific binding interactions and catalytic processes of these enzymes. Researchers employ techniques such as enzyme kinetics, X-ray crystallography, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy to investigate the molecular mechanisms of action and substrate recognition by glycosidases and glycosyltransferases. Moreover, this compound has been utilized in the synthesis of various carbohydrate derivatives and glycoconjugates for applications in chemical biology, glycobiology, and pharmaceutical research. Its role in providing insights into carbohydrate-active enzymes and facilitating the design of novel enzyme inhibitors or modulators underscores its significance in advancing our understanding of carbohydrate-related processes in biology.