3hydroxyisobutyric

3-hydroxyisobutyric acid, also known as 3-HIB or $\beta$-hydroxyisobutyric acid, is a naturally occurring carboxylic acid. It is a metabolite involved in the catabolism of the amino acid valine. The body produces 3-hydroxyisobutyric acid as a byproduct of protein breakdown, particularly from branched-chain amino acids like valine. It is excreted in the urine. Elevated levels of 3-hydroxyisobutyric acid in urine can be an indicator of certain metabolic disorders or conditions affecting valine metabolism. It has also been investigated for its potential roles in various biological pathways, though its precise physiological functions are still under active research. The chemical formula for 3-hydroxyisobutyric acid is $\text{C}_4\text{H}_8\text{O}_3$. It is a chiral molecule, meaning it exists as two enantiomers, (R)-3-hydroxyisobutyric acid and (S)-3-hydroxyisobutyric acid. The metabolic pathways typically produce the (R)-enantiomer. Research has explored its association with conditions such as diabetes and obesity, as well as its potential as a biomarker for cardiovascular disease.