Ferene disodium salt
[CAS# 79551-14-7]

Identification

• Classification: Analytical chemistry >> Standard >> Spectrometric standard
• Name: Ferene disodium salt
• Synonyms: 3-(2-Pyridyl)-5,6-di(2-furyl)-1,2,4-triazine-5',5''-disulfonic acid disodium salt; 5,5'-[3-(2-Pyridyl)-1,2,4-triazine-5,6-diyl]difuran-2-sulfonic acid disodium salt
• Molecular Formula: C₁₆H₈N₄Na₂O₈S₂
• Molecular Weight: 494.37
• CAS Registry Number: 79551-14-7
• EC Number: 629-460-6
• SMILES: C1=CC=NC(=C1)C2=NC(=C(N=N2)C3=CC=C(O3)S(=O)(=O)[O-])C4=CC=C(O4)S(=O)(=O)[O-].[Na+].[Na+]

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Risk Statements: H317-H319
• Safety Statements: P261-P264+P265-P272-P280-P302+P352-P305+P351+P338-P321-P333+P317-P337+P317-P362+P364-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
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319

Discovery and Applications

Ferene disodium salt, also known as disodium 3-(2-pyridyl)-5,6-bis(4-sulfonic acid)-1,2,4-triazine, is a significant compound in analytical chemistry, particularly in the detection and quantification of iron. Its discovery and applications have revolutionized various fields, including clinical diagnostics, environmental science, and industrial processes.

The discovery of Ferene disodium salt dates back to the mid-20th century when researchers were exploring efficient and reliable methods for metal ion detection. The compound was synthesized to act as a chromogenic reagent, a substance that changes color in the presence of specific ions, making it particularly useful for spectrophotometric analysis. Its structure includes a triazine ring with sulfonic acid groups that enhance its water solubility and a pyridyl group that facilitates strong binding with metal ions, especially iron.

The primary application of Ferene disodium salt is in the colorimetric determination of iron. When Ferene reacts with iron ions, it forms a highly stable and intensely colored complex. This reaction is specific to ferrous ions (Fe^2+), producing a blue-colored complex that can be quantitatively measured using a spectrophotometer at a wavelength of around 593 nm. This property allows for the accurate and sensitive detection of iron concentrations in various samples.

In clinical diagnostics, Ferene disodium salt is used to measure serum iron levels, an essential parameter in diagnosing and monitoring conditions such as anemia and hemochromatosis. The compound's ability to selectively form complexes with iron makes it a preferred choice for developing iron assays in medical laboratories. These assays are crucial for evaluating a patient's iron status and guiding appropriate treatment plans.

Environmental science also benefits from the application of Ferene disodium salt. It is employed in water quality testing to monitor iron contamination in water sources. Iron levels in water are a significant concern for both environmental health and industrial processes, as excess iron can lead to infrastructure corrosion and adverse ecological effects. The use of Ferene disodium salt in spectrophotometric assays enables accurate monitoring and ensures that iron concentrations remain within safe limits.

Moreover, Ferene disodium salt finds applications in various industrial processes where iron quantification is critical. For instance, it is used in the food and beverage industry to monitor iron content in products and ensure compliance with regulatory standards. The compound's reliability and ease of use make it an essential tool in maintaining quality control and product safety.

The synthesis of Ferene disodium salt involves a series of chemical reactions that introduce functional groups to the triazine ring, enhancing its reactivity and solubility. Advances in synthetic chemistry have improved the production methods, making the compound more accessible and affordable for widespread use.

References

2001. Comparison of Bathophenanthroline Sulfonate and Ferene as Chromogens in Colorimetric Measurement of Low Hepatic Iron Concentration. Clinical Chemistry, 47(11).
DOI: 10.1093/clinchem/47.11.2059

1997. Application of a Sensitive and Specific Reagent for the Determination of Serum Iron to the Bayer DAX48. American Journal of Clinical Pathology, 108(3).
DOI: 10.1093/ajcp/108.3.269

1985. A specific iron stain for iron-binding proteins in polyacrylamide gels: Application to transferrin and lactoferrin. Analytical Biochemistry, 149(1).
DOI: 10.1016/0003-2697(85)90258-1