dmtu

DMTU, in this article referring to N,N-dimethylthiourea, is a small organosulfur compound used as a reagent in organic synthesis and as a biochemical tool. It is derived from thiourea by N,N-dialkylation, giving the structure (CH3)2N-C(=S)-N(CH3)2. The molecular formula is C5H12N2S, and it appears as a colorless crystalline solid that dissolves in many polar solvents.

Preparation and properties

DMTU can be prepared by alkylation of thiourea with dimethyl sulfate or methyl iodide in the presence of a base, followed by purification. As a thiourea derivative, it is relatively stable under standard laboratory conditions and is compatible with many organic synthesis workflows. Its reactivity is influenced by the two tertiary amide-like nitrogens adjacent to the thiocarbonyl group.

Applications

In organic chemistry, DMTU serves as a versatile building block for generating other thiourea derivatives and as a reagent in certain alkylation reactions. In biological and plant-science contexts, it is used as a scavenger of reactive carbonyl species, helping researchers probe oxidative stress pathways and related signaling in experimental systems.

Safety and handling

DMTU should be handled with standard laboratory precautions. It can act as an irritant to skin, eyes, and the respiratory tract. Appropriate personal protective equipment, good ventilation, and adherence to disposal regulations are recommended.

See also

DMTU is primarily identified in chemistry as N,N-dimethylthiourea, but the acronym can have other meanings in different fields.