Propane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid

Propane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid, also known as Citric acid, is a weak organic acid that has the chemical formula C6H8O7. It occurs naturally in citrus fruits. In biochemistry, it is an intermediate in the citric acid cycle, which occurs in the metabolism of all aerobic organisms.

Structure and properties

Propane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid is a carboxylic acid with three carboxyl groups (-COOH). Its molecular structure can be written as HOOC-CH2-C(OH)(COOH)-CH2-COOH, representing a propane molecule with carboxyl groups attached to each of the three carbon atoms.

Biochemical role

In living organisms, propane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid is a key intermediate in the citric acid cycle. This metabolic pathway is used by all aerobic organisms to release stored energy through the oxidation of acetyl-CoA into adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and carbon dioxide.

Industrial uses

Propane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid is widely used as an acidifier, as a flavoring, and as a chelating agent. A citrate is a derivative of citric acid; that is, the salts, esters, and the polyatomic anion found in solution.

Health and safety

Propane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid is generally recognized as safe for use in food by the Food and Drug Administration. However, excessive consumption can lead to acidosis and may cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.

See also

• Citric acid cycle
• Acetyl-CoA
• Adenosine triphosphate

References

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Propane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic_acid

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  Citrate structure

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  Cis-Aconitate structure

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  Isocitric acid structure