Potassium orotate
[CAS# 24598-73-0]

Identification

• Classification: Biochemical >> Nucleoside drugs >> Nucleotides and their analogues
• Name: Potassium orotate
• Synonyms: Potassium 1,2,3,6-tetrahydro-2,6-dioxopyrimidine-4-carboxylate
• Molecular Formula: C₅H₃KN₂O₄
• Molecular Weight: 194.19
• CAS Registry Number: 24598-73-0
• EC Number: 246-341-0
• SMILES: C1=C(NC(=O)NC1=O)C(=O)[O-].[K+]

Properties

• Solubility: 25 mg/mL (1 M NaOH)

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Risk Statements: H302-H315-H319-H335
• Safety Statements: P261-P280-P301+P312-P302+P352-P305+P351+P338

Discovery and Applications

Potassium orotate is a chemical compound that combines potassium with orotic acid. This substance emerged in the late 20th century, driven by the need to explore the effects of orotic acid and its salts in various biological and medical contexts. Potassium orotate is known for its potential benefits in health and nutrition, as well as its role in cellular metabolism.

The discovery of potassium orotate stemmed from research into orotic acid, a compound that plays a crucial role in the biosynthesis of pyrimidines, which are essential for nucleic acid formation. The introduction of potassium as a counterion was aimed at enhancing the solubility and bioavailability of orotic acid, thus making it more effective in various applications.

In medicine, potassium orotate has been explored for its potential therapeutic benefits. It is believed to support cellular function and enhance the metabolism of nucleic acids. Some studies suggest that potassium orotate may have a role in improving exercise performance and recovery, potentially by aiding in cellular repair processes. Its use in nutritional supplements is based on the idea that it can support overall health by contributing to the synthesis of essential cellular components.

The compound is also studied for its potential in treating certain conditions. In clinical trials, potassium orotate has been investigated for its ability to support heart health, due to its influence on cellular energy metabolism. However, further research is needed to fully establish its efficacy and safety for these uses.

Potassium orotate is utilized in various dietary supplements and health products. It is often included in formulations aimed at promoting general wellness and improving physical performance. Its role as a dietary supplement is based on the premise that it can provide beneficial effects by enhancing the body's natural processes related to nucleic acid metabolism.

Despite its potential benefits, the use of potassium orotate should be approached with caution. As with any supplement, it is important to consider dosage and individual health conditions before use. The compound's applications in health and nutrition highlight its significance in supporting various physiological functions.

References

1979. [Autoradiographic analysis of the effect of potassium orotate on the intensity of uridine-5 3H and proline-3H incorporation into wound fibroblasts]. *Biulleten' eksperimental'noi biologii i meditsiny*, 87(6).
URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/465702

1986. Hereditary orotic aciduria: further biochemistry. *Advances in experimental medicine and biology*, 195(Pt A).
DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4684-5104-7_10

1970. [Effect of orotic acid on hemopoieais during administration of thiophosphamide]. *Farmakologiia i toksikologiia*, 33(5).
URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/4989176