Fumaratecontaining

Fumarate-containing compounds are chemical species that incorporate the fumarate moiety, derived from fumaric acid, a four-carbon dicarboxylic acid. In these compounds, the fumarate unit is typically present as a diester, a salt, or as part of a larger molecule. The fundamental structural feature is the trans-alkene between the two carboxylate-bearing carbons, with two adjacent carboxyl groups.

Fumarate is an intermediate of the citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle) in cellular respiration, formed from succinate and converted to malate in a hydration reaction. Fumarate and its esters occur in nature in small amounts and may be produced or metabolized by plants and fungi.

Common fumarate-containing derivatives include dimethyl fumarate and diethyl fumarate, which are diesters of fumaric acid; and fumarate salts such as disodium fumarate and dipotassium fumarate. The diesters are prepared by esterification of fumaric acid with alcohols; salts form by neutralization with bases.

Applications: Dimethyl fumarate is used pharmacologically as a therapeutic agent for inflammatory and neurodegenerative conditions, notably multiple sclerosis, acting via activation of the Nrf2 pathway and anti-inflammatory effects. It is a Michael acceptor and can irritate skin and mucous membranes. Fumaric acid and its esters and salts are also used as food additives or acidulants; some fumarate salts serve as dietary supplements. In industry, fumarate esters are used as monomers and crosslinking agents in polymers and coatings.

Safety and regulation: Fumarate-containing compounds are regulated for consumer exposure; diesters and salts may pose irritation or sensitization risks and should be handled with appropriate precautions.