Dekarboxiláció

Dekarboxiláció is a chemical reaction that removes a carboxyl group ( CO2 ) from a molecule. This process often results in the formation of a new carbon-carbon or carbon-heteroatom bond. Dekarboxiláció can occur in both organic and inorganic compounds and is a crucial step in many biochemical pathways and industrial processes.

In organic chemistry, dekarboxiláció commonly involves the loss of carbon dioxide from carboxylic acids. This can be achieved through various methods, including heating (thermal dekarboxiláció), using specific reagents, or through enzymatic catalysis. For example, malonic acid readily undergoes dekarboxiláció upon heating to form acetic acid.

Biochemically, dekarboxiláció is essential for metabolism. Amino acids undergo dekarboxiláció to form amines, which are vital neurotransmitters and signaling molecules. This process is often catalyzed by decarboxylase enzymes. Similarly, the citric acid cycle, a central pathway in cellular respiration, involves several dekarboxiláció steps that release carbon dioxide as a byproduct.

Industrially, dekarboxiláció is utilized in the production of various chemicals. For instance, the production of certain polymers and pharmaceuticals involves dekarboxiláció reactions. The efficiency and selectivity of dekarboxiláció are important considerations for chemists and biochemical engineers.