C6H13NO5

C6H13NO5 is the chemical formula most commonly associated with glucosamine, an amino sugar that serves as an essential building block in biology. The formula corresponds to several structural isomers, but the biologically relevant form is D-glucosamine, which features an amino group at the second carbon and multiple hydroxyl groups on a six-carbon backbone. Its approximate molar mass is 179 g/mol.

In nature, glucosamine occurs as part of the glycoproteins and glycosaminoglycans that contribute to cartilage and connective tissues. It is a key precursor in the hexosamine biosynthetic pathway and a component of substances such as hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate, and keratan sulfate. Glucosamine is also found in dietary sources, particularly in shells of crustaceans, where it is derived from the breakdown of chitin.

Commercially, glucosamine is produced for use as a dietary supplement. It is available in several salt forms, most commonly glucosamine sulfate and glucosamine hydrochloride. Supplements are marketed for joint health and the management of osteoarthritis, though clinical evidence for disease modification is mixed; some studies report modest symptom relief, while others find little to no benefit beyond placebo. Safety at standard doses is generally good, with potential gastrointestinal side effects and rare allergic reactions. Because many products are derived from shellfish, allergen considerations apply, though synthetic or fermentation-derived forms are also available.

Overall, C6H13NO5 identifies a family of amino sugar compounds, with glucosamine being the most widely described representative in biology and commerce.