2hydroxy3oxobutanoic

2-hydroxy-3-oxobutanoic acid, also known as alpha-keto-beta-hydroxybutyric acid, is a chemical compound with the molecular formula C4H6O4. It is a derivative of butanoic acid, featuring both a hydroxyl group (-OH) on the second carbon atom and a ketone group (C=O) on the third carbon atom. This structure places it within the class of alpha-keto acids and beta-hydroxy acids.

The compound can exist as an isomer, with stereoisomers possible due to the chiral center at the second carbon atom. It is a relatively unstable compound and can undergo decarboxylation and other reactions. Its presence in biological systems is often transient, and it is considered an intermediate in certain metabolic pathways. For example, it can be formed from the oxidation of threonine or through other biochemical processes. While not a commonly encountered substance outside of specific chemical and biological contexts, its study contributes to understanding metabolic regulation and biochemical transformations.