2,3-Dimethoxy-5-methyl-p-benzoquinone

Chemical Properties

red or orange crystals or fibres

Uses

2,3-Dimethoxy-5-methyl-p-benzoquinone (Ubidecarenone EP Impurity A)

Definition

ChEBI: A derivative of benzoquinone carrying a 5-methyl substituent; and methoxy substituents at positions 2 and 3. The core structure of the ubiquinone group of compounds.

Synthesis Reference(s)

Chemical and Pharmaceutical Bulletin, 16, p. 2343, 1968 DOI: 10.1248/cpb.16.2343
The Journal of Organic Chemistry, 53, p. 5453, 1988 DOI: 10.1021/jo00258a010

General Description

2,3-Dimethoxy-5-methyl-p-benzoquinone (Coenzyme Q₀ or DMM) is present in all the cells including neural cells.

Biochem/physiol Actions

2,3-Dimethoxy-5-methyl-p-benzoquinone (Coenzyme Q0) interacts with tau protein and aids in the formation of filamentous structure.

Purification Methods

It crystallises in red needles from pet ether (b 40-60o) and sublimes at high vacuum at a bath temperature of 46-48o [Ashley et al. J Chem Soc 441 1938, UV in EtOH: Vischer J Chem Soc 815 1953, UV in cyclohexane: Morton et al. Helv Chim Acta 41 2343 1858, Aghoramurthy et al. Chem Ind (London) 1327 1954]. [Beilstein 8 IV 2721.]