isonipecotic

Isonipecotic acid, also known as piperidine-4-carboxylic acid, is a heterocyclic organic compound with the chemical formula C6H11NO2. It is a derivative of piperidine, a six-membered ring containing one nitrogen atom, with a carboxylic acid group attached at the fourth position. It exists as a white crystalline solid and is soluble in water.

The compound is an isomer of nipecotic acid, which has the carboxylic acid group at the third position of the piperidine ring. Isonipecotic acid is a non-proteinogenic amino acid and has been studied for its potential biological activities. It is a building block in the synthesis of various pharmaceutical compounds, including some analgesics and neuroactive agents. Researchers have explored its role in neurotransmitter systems, particularly its interaction with GABA transporters.

Its chemical structure makes it a useful intermediate in organic synthesis. The presence of both an amine and a carboxylic acid group allows for a variety of reactions, including amide formation and salt formation. While not a common dietary component, it can be synthesized in laboratory settings for research purposes and chemical manufacturing.

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