Glutaric acid

Glutaric acid is naturally produced in the body during the metabolism of some amino acids, including lysine and tryptophan. It can also arise by chain extension of α-ketoglutarate to α-ketoadipate. Defects in this metabolic pathway can lead to a disorder called glutaric aciduria, where toxic byproducts build up and can cause severe encephalopathy. ==Production==

Glutaric acid can be prepared by the ring-opening of butyrolactone with potassium cyanide to give the potassium salt of the carboxylate-nitrile that is hydrolyzed to the diacid. Alternatively hydrolysis, followed by oxidation of dihydropyran gives glutaric acid. It can also be prepared from reacting 1,3-dibromopropane with sodium or potassium cyanide to obtain the dinitrile, followed by hydrolysis. Using periodate, it is obtained from oxidation of 1,3-cyclohexanedione, which proceeds with decarboxylation. ==Uses==

• 1,5-Pentanediol, a common plasticizer and precursor to polyesters is manufactured by hydrogenation of glutaric acid and its derivatives. • Glutaric acid itself has been used in the production of polymers such as polyester polyols, polyamides. The odd number of carbon atoms (i.e. 5) is useful in decreasing polymer elasticity. • Pyrogallol can be produced from glutaric diester. ==Safety==

Glutaric acid may cause irritation to the skin and eyes. Acute hazards include the fact that this compound may be harmful by ingestion, inhalation or skin absorption. ==References==