cisbut2ene14dioate

cisbut2ene14dioate, also known as maleate, is the cis isomer of butenedioic acid. Its chemical formula is C4H4O4. This dicarboxylic acid is characterized by a double bond between the second and third carbon atoms, with the carboxyl groups oriented on the same side of the double bond. This geometric arrangement distinguishes it from its trans isomer, fumarate.

Maleate is a key intermediate in biological pathways. It is a product of the citric acid cycle, also known as the Krebs cycle, where it is formed from succinate. The enzyme succinate dehydrogenase catalyzes this oxidation. Following its formation, maleate is then isomerized to fumarate by the enzyme fumarase, which is essential for the continuation of the citric acid cycle and cellular respiration.

Beyond its role in metabolism, maleate and its salts, called maleates, have found applications in various industries. For instance, maleate esters can be used as plasticizers and as monomers in the production of polymers and resins. In pharmaceuticals, maleate salts of certain drugs are sometimes used to improve solubility and bioavailability. Due to its reactivity, cisbut2ene14dioate can undergo addition reactions across the double bond and esterification reactions at the carboxyl groups, allowing for a range of chemical modifications.