2,3,4-Trihydroxybenzaldehyde
[CAS# 2144-08-3]

Identification

• Classification: Organic raw materials >> Aldehyde
• Name: 2,3,4-Trihydroxybenzaldehyde
• Synonyms: Pyrogallolaldehyde
• Molecular Formula: C₇H₆O₄
• Molecular Weight: 154.12
• CAS Registry Number: 2144-08-3
• EC Number: 218-404-2
• SMILES: C1=CC(=C(C(=C1C=O)O)O)O

Properties

• Melting point: 159-162 °C

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Risk Statements: H302-H315-H319-H335-H412
• Safety Statements: P261-P264-P270-P271-P273-P280-P301+P312-P302+P352-P304+P340-P305+P351+P338-P312-P330-P332+P313-P337+P313-P362-P403+P233-P405-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	3	H412
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2A	H319

Discovery and Applications

2,3,4-Trihydroxybenzaldehyde, an organic compound with the molecular formula C7H6O4, was identified during early 20th-century research into natural phenolic compounds and their derivatives. This compound, characterized by three hydroxyl groups on a benzene ring along with an aldehyde functional group, was synthesized to study its unique chemical properties and potential biological activities.

In pharmaceutical research, 2,3,4-trihydroxybenzaldehyde is used as a building block for synthesizing bioactive compounds. Its structure allows for the creation of derivatives with potential therapeutic properties. For instance, it serves as a precursor in the synthesis of various natural products and synthetic drugs that exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities.

2,3,4-Trihydroxybenzaldehyde is employed in biochemical studies to understand its interactions with biological molecules. Its multiple hydroxyl groups make it an excellent candidate for studying enzyme inhibition and protein binding. This compound helps elucidate the mechanisms of action of various enzymes and proteins.

In material science, 2,3,4-trihydroxybenzaldehyde is used in the synthesis of functional polymers and resins. Its polyhydroxy structure enables it to participate in polymerization reactions, leading to materials with enhanced properties such as increased strength, thermal stability, and resistance to degradation.

2,3,4-Trihydroxybenzaldehyde is a versatile intermediate in organic synthesis. It can undergo various chemical reactions, including oxidation, reduction, and condensation, to produce a wide array of complex molecules. This versatility makes it a valuable starting material for chemists working on the synthesis of dyes, fragrances, and other specialty chemicals.

In agriculture, 2,3,4-trihydroxybenzaldehyde is used in the development of plant growth regulators and protective agents. Its derivatives can act as growth inhibitors or stimulants, depending on their chemical modifications. These compounds help manage crop growth and protect plants from pests and diseases, thereby enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability.

References

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DOI: 10.1007/s10904-018-0978-5

2023. Anti-bacterial, anti-oxidant activities of polymer-based metal complexes and their catalyst effects in presence of H2O2. Iranian Polymer Journal, 32.
DOI: 10.1007/s13726-023-01249-7

2020. Therapeutic candidates for the Zika virus identified by a high-throughput screen for Zika protease inhibitors. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, 117(48).
DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2005463117