GuHCl

GuHCl, also known as guanidinium chloride, is a chemical compound with the formula (NH2)2C=NHCl. It is a white, crystalline solid that is highly soluble in water. Guanidinium chloride is a strong base and a potent denaturant, meaning it can disrupt the structure of proteins and other biological molecules. This property makes it useful in various scientific and industrial applications.

In biochemistry, GuHCl is commonly used to denature proteins for the purpose of purification or analysis. It works by disrupting the hydrogen bonds and other weak interactions that stabilize the protein's native structure. This process, known as denaturation, can be reversed by removing the GuHCl and allowing the protein to refold.

In the pharmaceutical industry, GuHCl is used as a component in the synthesis of certain drugs. Its ability to denature proteins can also be exploited in the development of protein-based therapeutics.

GuHCl is also used in the food industry as a preservative and as a pH adjuster. It is considered generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in food.

Despite its useful properties, GuHCl can be harmful if ingested in large amounts. It can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes, and may be toxic if inhaled. Therefore, it is important to handle GuHCl with care and follow appropriate safety guidelines when working with this compound.