Inositol, Myo-Inositol, Meso-Inositol, Cyclohexanehexol, 87-89-8

Inositol, Myo-Inositol, Meso-Inositol, Cyclohexanehexol, 87-89-8

Product Name

Inositol (Myo-Inositol, meso-Inositol, Cyclohexanehexol, CAS: 87-89-8)

Chemical Identity

• CAS Numbers: 87-89-8; 6917-35-7

• Molecular Formula: C6H12O6

• Molecular Weight: 180.16 g/mol

• Structure: Cyclohexane ring with six hydroxyl groups (hexahydroxycyclohexane)

• Isomers: 9 stereoisomers; myo-inositol is the most common and biologically relevant

Physical and Chemical Properties

• Appearance: White crystalline powder, odorless, sweet taste

• Density: 1.75 g/cm³

• Melting Point: 222–227 °C

• Boiling Point (estimated): 232.96 °C

• Solubility:

  • Water: 14 g/100 mL at 25 °C (solubility increases with temperature)

  • Slightly soluble in ethanol, glycerin, acetic acid

  • Insoluble in ether, acetone, chloroform

• pH (100 g/L solution): 5–7

• Storage Conditions: 2–8 °C, sealed container

Natural Occurrence

• Found in animal tissues (muscle, heart, liver, lung) in free form or as phosphatidylinositol.

• In plants, mainly present as inositol phosphate or phytate salts (inositol hexaphosphate).

• Food Sources: Whole grains, nuts, citrus fruits, cantaloupe, beans, currants, cabbage, milk.

Production Methods

• Hydrolysis of phytin (calcium-magnesium phytate): Acid treatment (HCl or H2SO4), neutralization with lime milk, decolorization with activated carbon, crystallization.

• Pressure hydrolysis: Improves yield and reduces production cycle.

• Enzymatic conversion: Using phytase and phosphatase enzymes to degrade phytic acid into inositol.

Biological Functions

• Essential for lipid and carbohydrate metabolism.

• Acts as a second messenger (inositol triphosphate) in calcium signaling pathways.

• Supports liver function, prevents fat accumulation, lowers serum lipids.

• Beneficial for eye health and hair growth.

• Plays a role in cell division, secretion, and signal transduction.

Applications

• Pharmaceuticals:

  • Used with vitamin B complex to prevent fatty liver and hyperlipidemia.

  • Supportive treatment for diabetes, atherosclerosis, alopecia, and metabolic disorders.

• Food Industry:

  • Nutritional fortifier in infant formula and beverages (210–250 mg/kg).

  • Added to animal feed (fish, shrimp, poultry) to improve growth and prevent deficiency.

  • Phytate derivatives (inositol hexaphosphate) used as antioxidants and stabilizers.

• Cosmetics & Chemicals:

  • Raw material for advanced cosmetics.

  • Intermediate in organic synthesis.

Safety and Toxicology

• GRAS (FDA, §182.5370, 2000): Generally recognized as safe.

• Side Effects:

  • May interact with psychiatric medications.

  • Not suitable for hypoglycemic patients.

  • Excessive intake may disturb calcium-phosphorus balance.

  • Possible uterine contractions and abnormal bleeding.

  • Allergic reactions (itching, dyspnea, chest tightness) in sensitive individuals.

Economic Value

Inositol is a versatile compound with high commercial importance in pharmaceuticals, food, feed, and cosmetics. Its dual role as a vitamin-like nutrient and biochemical reagent makes it indispensable in multiple industries.