7683-64-9

Squalene belongs to the group of triterpenoids. Oily liquid. After absorbing oxygen in the air, it is transformed into viscous liquid resembling linseed oil. Melting point -38 ° C, boiling point 280 ° C (17 mm Hg), specific gravity 0.8128 (15/4 ° C), refractive index 1.4965, in cyclohexane UV λmax < 226 nm. Soluble in ether, petroleum ether, acetone and carbon tetrachloride and other fat-soluble solvents, slightly soluble in ethanol and glacial acetic acid, almost insoluble in water. Has a slight pleasant odor. Decomposes when distilled under normal pressure. Gradually absorbs oxygen and resinates when placed in air.

squalene: An intermediate compoundformed in the synthesis ofcholesterol; it is a hydrocarbon containing30 carbon atoms. The immediateoxidation of squalene tosqualene 2,3-epoxide is the last commonstep in the synthesis of sterolsin animals, plants, and fungi.

Squalene takes part in metabolism as precursor for synthesis of steroids and structurally quite similar to β-carotene, coenzyme q10, vitamins K1, E, and D. As a secosteroid, vitamin D biosynthesis is also regulated by squalene. Moreover, being precursor for each steroid family makes squalene a crucial component of the body.