1,2,3,5-Tetra-O-Benzoyl-2-C-Methyl-β-D-Ribofuranose belongs in the class of sugar derivatives, known for its role as a raw material in the synthesis of advanced pharmaceutical compounds. Laboratories rely on its unique structure—a pentose sugar ring adorned with four benzoyl (C7H5O) groups and one extra methyl group at the second carbon atom. The meticulous placement of benzoyl groups on the molecular backbone gives the molecule both enhanced stability and customized reactivity. These features support high-level synthesis routes, especially in projects demanding nucleoside analogues for antiviral or anticancer research. Professionals working with pharmaceutical-grade raw materials will recognize this compound’s significance in improving yield and purity, where reproducible quality remains non-negotiable.
The chemical appears primarily as a solid, offering a clean, off-white to light tan tone, often in the form of fine powder, crystalline flakes, or granules. In some cases, the substance may take a pearl-like appearance depending on the crystallization method during its final processing. Strict temperature control in storage keeps the material from breaking down or clumping. Scientists value its robust crystalline structure for easy handling and precise measurement during solution preparation. When dissolved in suitable organic solvents such as dichloromethane or ethyl acetate, the substance forms a clear solution. This flexibility means that chemists can prepare concentrated solutions or dilute the compound down to a level compatible with sensitive synthetic steps, all without introducing unwanted impurities.
1,2,3,5-Tetra-O-Benzoyl-2-C-Methyl-β-D-Ribofuranose follows the molecular formula C36H30O9. Its molar mass hovers around 606.63 g/mol, which is substantial for a carbohydrate derivative. Packing several aromatic benzoyl esters onto a furanose ring not only boosts its hydrophobic character, but also modifies how the molecule interacts with common reagents in the medicinal chemistry toolkit. On paper or in a molecular visualization, the compound shows a five-membered ribofuranose ring bearing four bulky benzoyl groups at positions 1, 2, 3, and 5, with one additional methyl substitution at C-2. These features make it stand out among ribofuranose derivatives by offering both chemical selectivity and steric differentiation during multi-step synthesis.
High-quality 1,2,3,5-Tetra-O-Benzoyl-2-C-Methyl-β-D-Ribofuranose shows a melting point typically in the range of 105°C to 115°C, depending on batch purity and crystallization parameters. Its density sits close to 1.30–1.33 g/cm3 at ambient temperature, reflecting the aromatic mass and tight molecular packing. In personal lab experience, handling the compound does not usually raise dust or pose inhalation hazards, especially when adequate PPE is used. The material resists water but dissolves readily in popular laboratory solvents like dichloromethane, chloroform, and ethyl acetate. Occasionally, slight variation in crystal size appears from one manufacturer to another, but this rarely impacts its use in routine lab protocols unless particle size becomes critical in a pilot-scale process.
Suppliers adhering to BP, EP, and USP standards ship each batch with analytical records backing up identity, purity (typically >99%), absence of related substances, and water content (KF usually <0.5%). Chromatographic data—whether HPLC or GC—is a standard inclusion, not just for regulatory satisfaction but for the working chemist’s peace of mind. These pharma-grade materials guarantee batch-to-batch reproducibility, critical during scale-up or when using the product directly in regulated pharmaceutical synthesis. Tightly monitored storage conditions combat hydrolysis or acyl migration, so laboratories opt for sealed, light-protected containers kept below 25°C.
Typically, 1,2,3,5-Tetra-O-Benzoyl-2-C-Methyl-β-D-Ribofuranose carries an HS Code falling under pharmaceutical intermediates (for example, 29420000). International shipping needs careful documentation, including a certificate of analysis and MSDS for customs and regulatory compliance. Most handlers avoid direct sunlight, high humidity, and sources of ignition, because small-molecule organics sometimes flag as combustible or sensitive to environmental conditions. If an accident or spill happens, personnel equipped with gloves, goggles, and standard lab coats can clean up without strong toxicity risk.
Though considered only a mild irritant compared to volatile solvents or more reactive benzoate derivatives, this substance still deserves safe chemical handling practices. Benzoylated carbohydrates sometimes provoke skin and eye sensitivity, especially for those without routine exposure. Direct ingestion or inhalation, although unlikely in the lab, should be met with immediate medical consultation. Any waste or unused material follows standard organic chemical disposal routes—usually incineration or qualified chemical waste processing. To date, evidence does not point to high aquatic toxicity, but laboratory-scale use means accidental release should remain minimal. Regulatory frameworks underscore responsible lab practices, and decades of chemical experience in regulated environments reinforce the need to avoid shortcuts or cost-saving at the expense of safety.
Many chemists in process development see this ribofuranose derivative as a workhorse for building nucleoside scaffolds. Modification at the 2-carbon permits selective transformations, such as glycosylation or deprotection, for constructing advanced active ingredients. Having reliable access to a pharmaceutical-grade source allows research teams to move quickly from initial reactions right through to API isolation, without pausing for extra purification. The molecule’s architecture streamlines routes to synthetic antivirals or anticancer nucleoside analogues, which play a role in both new drug discovery and generic medicine production. Its predictable behavior in organic media makes reaction planning straightforward, easing troubleshooting and reproducibility—essential traits in a pharmaceutical manufacturing setting.
Every busy lab knows the headaches of sourcing reliable chemical intermediates. Limited material consistency or batch traceability creates bottlenecks, especially for teams racing to file new drug applications. One way forward is robust supplier qualification: audit partners, request full documentation up front, and maintain an inventory system ignoring “just in time” temptations for core raw materials. Use validated handling protocols—dedicated tools, controlled storerooms, and closed working environments—to avoid cross-contamination and degradation. Establish training so neither new nor seasoned staff let dry powders clump from air exposure. Bottom line, get everyone fluent in both the risks and safe working solutions associated with handling benzoylated carbohydrates.
Work with 1,2,3,5-Tetra-O-Benzoyl-2-C-Methyl-β-D-Ribofuranose BP EP USP Pharma Grade requires an understanding of its chemical profile and hands-on respect for its physiological risks. Every detail—from its structure to its shipping paperwork—has practical impacts for the professional chemist or materials scientist. In the modern laboratory or API production suite, those who pay attention to the intersection of high-grade materials, documented compliance, and day-to-day handling practices end up with both high-quality intermediates and fewer downstream problems. This molecule earns its place as a cornerstone for those serious about reliable, reproducible pharmaceutical synthesis.