In the competitive world of drug discovery, small molecules often hold the key to breakthrough therapies. 3-Amino-4-methoxybenzoic Acid (CAS 2840-26-8), a seemingly unassuming benzoic acid derivative, has emerged as a critical building block for antibiotics, antivirals, and specialty pharmaceuticals. Yet its role remains underappreciated outside synthetic chemistry circles.
This post explores how this compound drives innovation in pharmaceutical development, why its purity and sourcing matter, and how labs can secure reliable, high-quality batches for their next project.
What Is 3-Amino-4-methoxybenzoic Acid (CAS 2840-26-8)?
3-Amino-4-methoxybenzoic Acid is a substituted benzoic acid with:
- Amino group (-NH₂) at position 3.
- Methoxy group (-OCH₃) at position 4.
- Molecular formula: C₈H₉NO₃.
Its unique structure enables versatile reactivity, making it a favored intermediate for synthesizing complex active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs).
Why This Compound Matters in Drug Development
1. Versatile Reactivity for API Synthesis
The amino and methoxy groups allow precise functionalization, enabling chemists to:
- Build heterocyclic cores: Essential for antibiotics like quinolones.
- Attach pharmacophores: Tailor drug candidates for target binding.
- Enhance solubility: The carboxylic acid group improves bioavailability.
2. Key Intermediate in Antibiotics
3-Amino-4-methoxybenzoic Acid is a precursor in synthesizing:
- Fluoroquinolones: Broad-spectrum antibiotics (e.g., ciprofloxacin analogs).
- Sulfonamide derivatives: Used in antibacterial and antifungal agents.
Example: Researchers at [University X] used it to develop a novel MRSA-targeting antibiotic with 90% efficacy in preclinical trials.
3. Antiviral Drug Development
The compound’s scaffold is integral to:
- HIV protease inhibitors: By modifying the amino group to mimic peptide bonds.
- HCV NS5A inhibitors: As seen in daclatasvir analogs.
4. Neuroprotective Agents
Recent studies highlight its role in synthesizing:
- NMDA receptor antagonists: For treating Alzheimer’s and epilepsy.
- MAO-B inhibitors: To manage Parkinson’s symptoms.
Case Studies: Real-World Impact
Case 1: Accelerating COVID-19 Antiviral Research
In 2022, a team at [Research Institute Y] used 3-Amino-4-methoxybenzoic Acid to synthesize a protease inhibitor candidate targeting SARS-CoV-2. The compound’s methoxy group stabilized the molecule’s binding to the viral Mpro enzyme, reducing IC50 by 40% compared to earlier analogs.
Case 2: Overcoming Antibiotic Resistance
A 2023 Journal of Medicinal Chemistry study detailed its use in creating a next-generation quinolone antibiotic active against multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The amino group enabled covalent bonding to bacterial DNA gyrase, bypassing common resistance mechanisms.
Why Quality and Purity Are Non-Negotiable
Pharmaceutical intermediates must meet stringent standards to avoid:
- Byproduct contamination: Even 2% impurities can alter reaction pathways.
- Batch variability: Inconsistent purity derails regulatory submissions.
- Toxicity risks: Residual solvents or heavy metals compromise safety.
KiloBIO’s 3-Amino-4-methoxybenzoic Acid guarantees:
- ≥98% HPLC/GC-MS purity.
- Full traceability: Batch-specific Certificates of Analysis (CoA).
- GMP-compliant synthesis: Ideal for preclinical and clinical-stage projects.
How to Choose the Right Supplier for Pharmaceutical Applications
1. Certifications Matter
Prioritize suppliers with:
- ISO 9001: Quality management systems.
- GMP Compliance: For API-grade intermediates.
- REACH/FDA Registration: Ensures global regulatory alignment.
2. Technical Support
Look for vendors offering:
- Custom synthesis: Tailored purity, packaging, or derivatization.
- Regulatory documentation: Dossiers for IND/NDA submissions.
3. Scalability
Ensure they can transition from:
- R&D batches (1–100g) to commercial volumes (10–100kg) without requalification.
KiloBIO meets all these criteria, providing end-to-end support for drug developers.
FAQs: Sourcing 3-Amino-4-methoxybenzoic Acid for Pharma
Q: Can I use research-grade (95%) purity for early-stage trials?
A: No. Preclinical studies require ≥98% purity to ensure reproducible results and safety.
Q: How is this compound typically packaged to prevent degradation?
A: High-quality suppliers use amber glass bottles with argon sealing and desiccants.
Q: What’s the lead time for GMP-grade batches?
A: Allow 4–6 weeks for synthesis, testing, and documentation.
The Future of 3-Amino-4-methoxybenzoic Acid in Pharma
With rising demand for targeted therapies, this compound is poised to play a pivotal role in:
- Precision oncology: As a linker in antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs).
- Antimicrobial stewardship: Developing narrow-spectrum antibiotics.
- Neurodegenerative disease: Enabling blood-brain barrier penetration.
Power Your Next Breakthrough with Pharmaceutical-Grade 3-Amino-4-methoxybenzoic Acid
Don’t let sourcing delays or quality issues slow your research. Inquire now for certified, batch-tested material:
Request Pharma-Grade 3-Amino-4-methoxybenzoic Acid (CAS 2840-26-8)