2hydroxypropane123tricarbonsäure

2-Hydroxypropanal, also known as lactaldehyde, is an organic compound with the chemical formula C3H6O2. It is a simple aldehyde containing a hydroxyl group. This molecule is chiral, meaning it exists as two enantiomers: (R)-lactaldehyde and (S)-lactaldehyde. It is an intermediate in various metabolic pathways.

In biological systems, lactaldehyde is primarily formed from the metabolism of sugars and amino acids. It can be produced from the breakdown of threonine and alanine. The body has mechanisms to further metabolize lactaldehyde to prevent its accumulation. For example, it can be oxidized to pyruvic acid or reduced to 1,2-propanediol.

Due to its reactive aldehyde and hydroxyl functional groups, lactaldehyde can participate in various chemical reactions. It can undergo oxidation, reduction, and condensation reactions. Its presence in biological systems, even in small amounts, can be indicative of certain metabolic conditions. In research settings, it is sometimes used as a building block in organic synthesis. The study of lactaldehyde contributes to our understanding of carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism, as well as the biochemistry of various physiological and pathological processes.

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