guanidinoacetic

Guanidinoacetic acid is a compound with the molecular formula C3H8N2O2. It is a derivative of guanidine, where one of the hydrogen atoms is replaced by an acetic acid group. This compound is a colorless, crystalline solid that is soluble in water and slightly soluble in ethanol. Guanidinoacetic acid is a precursor in the synthesis of various pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. It is also used in the production of certain polymers and as a reagent in organic synthesis. The compound is known for its ability to form stable complexes with metal ions, which has applications in coordination chemistry. Guanidinoacetic acid is generally considered to be non-toxic, but like any chemical, it should be handled with care to avoid skin and eye contact. Its exact biological role in living organisms is not well understood, but it is believed to play a role in the metabolism of certain amino acids. Further research is needed to fully elucidate its biological functions and potential applications.