CHOH2COO

CHOH2COO refers to the glycolate anion, a monovalent organic anion derived from glycolic acid. The chemical formula can be represented as C2H3O4−, where the structure consists of a hydroxyl group (–OH) attached to a carbon atom, which is also bonded to a carboxyl group (–COO−). This anion is a key component in various biochemical and industrial processes.

Glycolic acid, the neutral form of CHOH2COO, is a simple alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) commonly found in nature, particularly in sugar cane and other plants. It plays a significant role in plant metabolism, particularly in the glycolate pathway, which is involved in photorespiration—a process that occurs in plants under high light conditions. During photorespiration, glycolate is transported from the chloroplasts to peroxisomes, where it is oxidized to glyoxylate and subsequently converted into glycolate again or metabolized further.

In industrial and cosmetic applications, glycolic acid (and its anion form) is widely used as an exfoliant due to its ability to penetrate the skin and promote cell turnover. It is also utilized in chemical synthesis, particularly in the production of polymers and pharmaceuticals. The anion form, CHOH2COO−, is often encountered in aqueous solutions where glycolic acid dissociates, contributing to the solution’s acidity.

The chemical properties of CHOH2COO include its ability to form salts with metals and its role as a reducing agent in certain reactions. It is soluble in water and polar solvents, making it versatile in various applications. Research into its biochemical pathways continues to provide insights into plant physiology and potential biotechnological applications.