(S)-3-Aminobutyric acid hydrochloride

Updated: 2026-07-15

Overview

(S)-3-Aminobutyric acid hydrochloride is the hydrochloride salt of the (S)-enantiomer of 3-aminobutyric acid, a β-amino acid derivative. As a chiral building block, it plays significant roles in asymmetric synthesis and medicinal chemistry. The compound's stereospecificity makes it valuable for creating biologically active molecules with precise spatial configurations. Unlike its (R)-enantiomer, the (S)-form exhibits distinct interactions with biological systems, particularly in neurological applications. Pharmaceutical manufacturers utilize this compound as an intermediate for GABA receptor modulators and other neuroactive compounds. Its hydrochloride form improves stability and handling characteristics compared to the free base.

Physical and Chemical Properties

This crystalline compound demonstrates typical amino acid salt characteristics with zwitterionic properties in aqueous solutions. The hydrochloride salt form increases water solubility compared to the free amino acid, facilitating its use in biological buffers and reaction media. Its chiral center at the β-position influences both its chemical reactivity and biological activity. Thermal analysis shows decomposition before melting, typical of amino acid hydrochlorides. The material is hygroscopic, requiring careful moisture control during storage and handling. Analytical methods for quality control typically include HPLC for purity assessment and polarimetry for enantiomeric excess verification.

Main Applications

In pharmaceutical development, (S)-3-ABA HCl serves as a precursor for GABA analogs and other neuromodulatory compounds. Researchers employ it in structure-activity relationship studies to develop selective GABA-B receptor ligands. The compound's chiral nature makes it particularly valuable for creating stereospecific drugs with reduced side effects. The chemical also finds use in peptide mimetic design, where its β-amino acid structure introduces conformational constraints. Some agrochemical applications utilize derivatives of this compound as plant growth regulators or pest control agents. In academic settings, it's used to study amino acid transport mechanisms across biological membranes.

Safety and Storage

As with most amino acid hydrochlorides, this compound requires standard laboratory precautions including gloves and eye protection. The powder form presents inhalation risks during handling, necessitating fume hood use for large quantities. Spills should be contained with absorbent materials and disposed as chemical waste. Long-term stability requires protection from moisture and oxygen. For research quantities, desiccated storage at 2-8°C in amber glass containers is recommended. Large-scale industrial storage typically uses moisture-barrier bags within sealed drums, with nitrogen purging for oxygen-sensitive applications. Shelf life under optimal conditions exceeds 24 months.

B2B Procurement Guide

Industrial buyers should specify required purity levels (typically 97-99%), enantiomeric excess (usually ≥98%), and analytical documentation needs. Bulk pharmaceutical applications often require full ICH-compliant stability data and regulatory support documentation. Sample quantities for R&D are commonly available in 1-100g sizes from specialty chemical suppliers. Lead times vary significantly based on purity requirements - standard grades may ship within 1-2 weeks, while GMP-grade material often requires 8-12 weeks for production and QC testing. Quality verification should include chiral HPLC analysis and residual solvent screening. Some suppliers offer custom synthesis services for modified derivatives or isotope-labeled versions.