Pentachloroaniline (CAS 527-20-8)

Pentachloroaniline (PCA) is an aromatic amine compound, denoted by the molecular formula C6Cl5NH2. This colorless solid is insoluble in water but dissolves readily in organic solvents. It holds significant importance in the industrial sector, finding diverse applications. As a member of the aniline family, which includes compounds like aniline and chloroanilines, Pentachloroaniline is used as a dye and an intermediate in the production of plasticizers and pesticides. It also plays a role in rubber manufacturing and serves as a flame retardant. Over the years, Pentachloroaniline has undergone extensive scientific research due to its versatile applications. Scientists have used it as a model compound to investigate the effects of aromatic amines on biological systems and the environment. Studies involving Pentachloroaniline have shed light on how it affects the metabolism of proteins, enzymes, and DNA, as well as the bioavailability of nutrients in soil when chlorinated aromatic compounds are present. Within the human body, Pentachloroaniline is metabolized by enzymes. Initially, monoamine oxidase (MAO) transforms it into pentachloroaniline-N-oxide (Pentachloroaniline-NO). Subsequently, aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) further metabolizes Pentachloroaniline-NO to form Pentachloroaniline-N-oxide. This process continues with aldehyde oxidase (AO), converting it into pentachloroaniline-N-oxide-N-oxide (Pentachloroaniline-NO2). Finally, aldehyde reductase (AR) further metabolizes Pentachloroaniline-NO2 to form pentachloroaniline-N-oxide-N-oxide-N-oxide (Pentachloroaniline-NO3). Pentachloroaniline is a versatile aromatic amine compound used across various industries, and its significance in scientific research makes it an important subject of study for understanding the effects of aromatic amines and chlorinated aromatic compounds on both biological systems and the environment.