Methyl 4-nitrophenyl hexylphosphonate;

Hexylphosphonic acid methyl 4-nitrophenyl ester

Methyl 4-nitrophenyl hexylphosphonate is a phosphonate inhibitor of the enzyme serine esterase. It has been shown to be more potent than other irreversible inhibitors such as ethyl 4-nitrophenyl hexylphosphonate and methyl 4-nitrophenoxybutyl phosphate. This compound is an immobilized form of the methyl 4-nitrophenyl hexylphosphonate that is immobilized on an inert surface, such as silica gel, via a covalent bonding process. The immobilization of the molecule ensures that it will not leach from the surface and is stable over time. The molecular weight of this substance is 411.5 Daltons and its molecular formula is C8H15NO4P. This substance has a diameter of 0.8 nm and can be found in crystalline form with a melting point of 143 degrees Celsius at atmospheric pressure. 

Methyl 4-nitrophenyl hexylphosphonate is an organophosphate compound that is used in various fields of research and industry. This chemical is also known as 'V-series' and is classified as a nerve agent. In this paper, we will explore the definition, physical and chemical properties, synthesis and characterization, analytical methods, biological properties, toxicity and safety in scientific experiments, applications in scientific experiments, current state of research, potential implications in various fields of research and industry, limitations, and future directions of methyl 4-nitrophenyl hexylphosphonate.

Definition and Background:

Methyl 4-nitrophenyl hexylphosphonate is a chemical compound that belongs to the organophosphate class. Organophosphate compounds are commonly used in pesticides, insecticides, and nerve agents. This chemical is also known as 'V-series,' which includes other nerve agents such as VX and VR.

Physical and Chemical Properties:

Methyl 4-nitrophenyl hexylphosphonate is a colorless liquid with a faint odor. The molecular weight of this compound is 357.36 g/mol. The boiling point of this compound is 520.6°C, and the density is 1.335 g/cm3. This compound is insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents such as acetone and ethanol.

Synthesis and Characterization:

The synthesis of methyl 4-nitrophenyl hexylphosphonate involves the reaction of 4-nitrophenol with hexylphosphonic dichloride in the presence of triethylamine as a base. This reaction results in the formation of methyl 4-nitrophenyl hexylphosphonate as a product. The characterization of this compound is done using various spectroscopic techniques such as NMR, IR, and mass spectrometry.

Analytical Methods:

The analytical methods used to detect and quantify methyl 4-nitrophenyl hexylphosphonate include gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS), and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). These methods are highly sensitive and can detect low concentrations of this compound in various matrices.

Biological Properties:

Methyl 4-nitrophenyl hexylphosphonate is a potent inhibitor of acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine in the nervous system. This inhibition leads to the accumulation of acetylcholine, resulting in overstimulation of the nervous system, leading to convulsions and respiratory failure. This compound is highly toxic and can cause severe health effects in humans and animals.

Toxicity and Safety in Scientific Experiments:

Methyl 4-nitrophenyl hexylphosphonate is a highly toxic chemical that requires strict safety precautions when handling in scientific experiments. The toxicity of this compound can cause severe health effects such as respiratory failure, convulsions, and death. Researchers should take the necessary precautions when handling this compound and dispose of it properly after use.

Applications in Scientific Experiments:

Methyl 4-nitrophenyl hexylphosphonate is used in various fields of research, including analytical chemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology. This compound is used as a reference standard in the development of analytical methods for the detection of nerve agents. In pharmacology and toxicology studies, this compound is used as a model compound to study the toxicity of nerve agents on the nervous system.

Current State of Research:

The current research on methyl 4-nitrophenyl hexylphosphonate is focused on the development of analytical methods for the detection of nerve agents, including this compound. The research is also focused on the toxic effects of this compound on the nervous system and the development of antidotes and therapies to reverse the toxic effects of nerve agents.

Potential Implications in Various Fields of Research and Industry:

Methyl 4-nitrophenyl hexylphosphonate has potential implications in various fields of research and industry, including analytical chemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology. In analytical chemistry, this compound can be used as a reference standard for the detection of nerve agents in environmental samples such as soil and water. In pharmacology and toxicology, this compound can be used as a model compound for the study of the toxic effects of nerve agents on the nervous system.

Limitations:

The limitations of methyl 4-nitrophenyl hexylphosphonate include its highly toxic nature, which requires strict safety precautions when handling. This compound is also highly regulated due to its potential use as a nerve agent, making its availability limited.

Future Directions:

Future research on methyl 4-nitrophenyl hexylphosphonate should focus on the development of safer and more efficient antidotes and therapies to reverse the toxic effects of nerve agents. The research should also focus on the development of more sensitive and specific analytical methods for the detection of nerve agents in environmental samples. Finally, research should focus on the potential use of this compound in other areas, such as the development of novel drugs and materials.