Dimethylarsino

Dimethylarsino is a chemical fragment, or functional group, consisting of a dimethylarsine group attached to another atom or molecule. The formula for this group is (CH3)2As-. It is a derivative of arsine (AsH3) where two hydrogen atoms have been replaced by methyl groups. This organoarsenic moiety is a component of various chemical compounds, including some that are found in biological systems or produced synthetically.

In organic chemistry, the dimethylarsino group can be involved in various reactions, acting as a ligand in coordination chemistry or participating in nucleophilic substitution reactions. Its presence can influence the physical and chemical properties of the larger molecule to which it is attached. For example, it can affect solubility, reactivity, and the electronic properties of the compound.

Arsenobetaine and arsenocholine are naturally occurring organoarsenic compounds found in seafood that contain a dimethylarsinoyl group, a related structure where the arsenic atom is oxidized. These compounds are generally considered to be of low toxicity compared to inorganic arsenic species. Synthetic organoarsenic compounds incorporating the dimethylarsino group have been explored for various applications, including as potential pharmaceuticals or in materials science. The handling and study of compounds containing arsenic require caution due to the inherent toxicity of many arsenic compounds.