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Prenol: Nature's Versatile Terpenoid Alcohol

An exploration into 3-methyl-2-buten-1-ol, a fundamental building block in the chemistry of natural products and industrial synthesis.

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About Prenol

Chemical Identity

Prenol, systematically named 3-methyl-2-buten-1-ol, is a naturally occurring organic compound classified as a simple alcohol. It represents one of the most basic structures within the broader class of terpenoids.

Physical Characteristics

This compound presents as a clear, colorless oil at standard conditions. It exhibits moderate solubility in water and is fully miscible with most common organic solvents, facilitating its use in various chemical processes.

Sensory Profile

Prenol possesses a distinct fruity aroma, which lends itself to applications in the fragrance industry, albeit occasionally. Its olfactory properties contribute to the complex scent profiles of various natural sources.

Natural Occurrence

Found in Nature

Prenol is a widespread natural product, identified in numerous fruits and plants. Its presence has been documented in citrus fruits, cranberry, bilberry, currants, raspberries, blackberries, and tomatoes. It is also found in trace amounts in hop oil, coffee, and various berries like arctic bramble and cloudberry, as well as passion fruit.

Chemical Properties

Key Identifiers and Data

Prenol is characterized by several key identifiers and physical properties crucial for its identification and application:

Names

Preferred IUPAC name: 3-Methylbut-2-en-1-ol

Other names: 3,3-Dimethylallyl alcohol

Identifiers

CAS Number: 556-82-1

ChEBI: CHEBI:16019

ChemSpider: 10700

ECHA InfoCard: 100.008.312

EC Number: 209-141-4

PubChem CID: 11173

UNII: 55MY0HM445

CompTox EPA: DTXSID2027206

InChI: 1S/C5H10O/c1-5(2)3-4-6/h3,6H,4H2,1-2H3

InChIKey: ASUAYTHWZCLXAN-UHFFFAOYSA-N

SMILES: OC\C=C(/C)C

Properties

Chemical formula: C5H10O

Molar mass: 86.132 g/mol

Density: 0.848 g/cm3

Melting point: −59 °C (−74 °F; 214 K) (calculated)

Boiling point: 142 °C (288 °F; 415 K) (approximation)

Solubility in water: 17 g/100 ml (at 20 °C)

log P: 0.91

Vapor pressure: 3.17 hPa (at 25 °C, extrapolated)

Safety and Hazards

GHS Classification

Prenol is classified under the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) with specific hazard indicators:

Pictograms: 🔥

Signal word: Warning

Hazard statements: H226, H302

Precautionary statements: P210, P233, P240, P241, P242, P243, P264, P270, P301+P312, P303+P361+P353, P330, P370+P378, P403+P235, P501

Flash point: 43.3 °C (109.9 °F; 316.4 K)

Industrial Production

Synthesis Pathway

Industrially, Prenol is synthesized through a multi-step process. Initially, isobutene reacts with formaldehyde. This reaction yields isoprenol (3-methyl-3-buten-1-ol). Subsequently, isoprenol undergoes isomerization to produce Prenol (3-methyl-2-buten-1-ol).

Major manufacturers include BASF in Germany and Kuraray in Asia, highlighting its global industrial significance.

Applications and Uses

Chemical Intermediate

Prenol serves primarily as a crucial precursor in the industrial synthesis of citral. Citral is a key intermediate compound used in the production of essential vitamins, including Vitamin A, Vitamin E, and Vitamin K. The process involves the oxidation of Prenol to its corresponding aldehyde, prenal.

Fragrance Component

Due to its characteristic fruity aroma, Prenol finds occasional use in the formulation of fragrances, contributing subtle notes to complex scent compositions.

Role in Polymer Chemistry

Building Block for Isoprenoids

Prenol is a fundamental unit in the synthesis of isoprenoid alcohols, which are characterized by repeating C5H8 isoprene moieties. These compounds are sometimes referred to as 'isoprenols', though this should not be confused with the isomer isoprenol (3-methyl-3-buten-1-ol).

When these isoprenoid units are linked end-to-end, particularly when saturated, they form compounds known as polyprenols. These long-chain alcohols can consist of numerous isoprene units (up to 100) and play significant roles in biological processes:

  • Dolichols: Saturated isoprenoid alcohols are termed dolichols. They function as crucial glycosyl carriers in the synthesis of polysaccharides and are vital for stabilizing cellular membranes, protecting proteins, and supporting the immune system.
  • Polyprenols: Unsaturated long-chain isoprenoid alcohols are called polyprenols. They are involved in the acylation of proteins, carotenoids, and fat-soluble vitamins (A, E, K).
  • Metabolic Significance: Polyprenols are implicated in cell metabolism. Research suggests that ingested polyprenols can be converted into dolichols in the liver, participating in the dolichol phosphate cycle. This pathway is relevant in conditions involving dolichol deficits, such as chronic inflammatory, degenerative, and oncological diseases.
  • Natural Sources: Conifer needles are recognized as a particularly rich source for polyprenol extraction, utilizing gentle methods to preserve biological activity.

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References

References

A full list of references for this article are available at the Prenol Wikipedia page

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Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is derived from a snapshot of publicly available data and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional chemical or safety advice. The information provided herein is not a substitute for expert consultation regarding chemical properties, handling, safety, or industrial applications. Always refer to official safety data sheets (SDS), technical documentation, and consult with qualified chemical professionals for specific requirements and guidance. Never disregard professional advice or delay in seeking it because of information presented on this website.

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