Methyl 19-methyleicosanoate (CAS 95799-86-3)

Methyl 19-methyleicosanoate, identified by the CAS number 95799-86-3, is a methyl ester derivative of 19-methyleicosanoic acid, a saturated fatty acid with a methyl branch. This chemical structure is noteworthy due to its modified hydrocarbon chain, which includes a methyl group at the 19th carbon, distinguishing it from typical straight-chain fatty acids. This structural peculiarity impacts both its physical and chemical properties, such as melting point, solubility, and reactivity. In research, methyl 19-methyleicosanoate is often utilized to investigate the effects of branched-chain fatty acid esters on lipid bilayers and membrane dynamics. Its unique structure allows scientists to explore how such modifications influence lipid packing, membrane fluidity, and overall stability of lipid layers. This makes it particularly useful in the study of model cell membranes, contributing to a deeper understanding of membrane-associated processes and lipid interactions. Additionally, due to its ester linkage, methyl 19-methyleicosanoate is involved in studies focusing on ester hydrolysis reactions and the biodegradation of esters. These aspects are crucial for developing biodegradable materials and understanding the environmental fate of synthetic esters. The compound also serves as a model molecule in synthetic chemistry for the development of complex lipids and as a starting material for the synthesis of other chemically interesting branched-chain compounds.