N-Acetyl-L-histidine (CAS 39145-52-3)

N-Acetyl-L-histidine is a derivative of the essential amino acid histidine, characterized by the acetylation of the amino group. This modification imparts unique properties to the molecule, distinguishing it from its parent amino acid. In biochemical research, N-Acetyl-L-histidine plays a significant role as a model compound to study acetylation reactions, which are critical in the post-translational modification of proteins, affecting their function, localization, and interaction with other molecules. Furthermore, it serves as a tool in enzymology studies, especially in understanding the specificity and mechanism of action of histidine acetyltransferases and deacetylases. This compound also finds utility in the synthesis of complex peptides and proteins, where the acetyl group can protect the amino group during peptide bond formation, later to be removed enzymatically or chemically, revealing the native amine for further modifications or functional studies. Its stability and reactive properties make N-Acetyl-L-histidine an indispensable reagent in the elucidation of biochemical pathways and the investigation of histidine-related metabolism and enzymatic activities.