Methyl Stearate-1-13C (CAS 167388-13-8)

Methyl stearate-1-13C, designated by the CAS number 167388-13-8, is a carbon-13 labeled variant of methyl stearate, a fatty acid methyl ester commonly derived from stearic acid, a long-chain saturated fatty acid. This particular isotopologue incorporates a carbon-13 atom at the first carbon of the ester, distinguishing it from its non-labeled counterpart. Methyl stearate-1-13C is primarily utilized in scientific research, especially in the fields of environmental science, organic chemistry, and analytical chemistry as a tracer or internal standard for various spectroscopic and chromatographic techniques. Its incorporation of a stable isotope allows researchers to track or quantify the molecule in complex mixtures or environmental samples using methods such as mass spectrometry or nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. This capability is essential for understanding biochemical pathways and interactions within organic systems without altering the system′s natural dynamics. Moreover, the application of carbon-13 labeled compounds like methyl stearate-1-13C in metabolic studies allows scientists to explain the fate and transport of organic compounds in the biosphere, thereby providing insights into carbon cycling and energy flow in ecosystems. These studies often contribute significantly to foundational scientific knowledge and can inform broader environmental monitoring and assessment strategies.