MOLECULE

trans-2-Heptenal

2-heptenal known as trans-2-heptenal or 3-butylacrolein, belongs to the class of organic compounds known as medium-chain aldehydes. These are aldehydes with a chain length containing between 6 and 12 carbon atoms. Thus, 2-heptenal is considered to be a fatty aldehyde. 2-heptenal is a very hydrophobic, neutral molecule, it exists as a clear, colorless liquid and is practically insoluble in water. 2-heptenal occurs in two isomeric forms (trans - and cis -2-heptenal), with the trans form being of greater importance. 2-heptenal is found in the peel of Malaysian pink and white pomelo peel. The trans-form of 2-heptenal is also found in the scent gland secretion of the rice stink bug Oebalus pugnax (PMID: 17739573). 2-heptenal has been found in pulses (such as peas and other legumes) and has been isolated from soya bean oil (Glycine max) as well as safflower oil. 2-heptenal has also been detected, but not quantified in, several different fruits, grains and other foods, such as common grapes, oats, roselles, and watermelons. 2-heptenal has also been reported to be found in Cannabis sativa (PMID: 6991645, 26657499). 2-heptenal has a green, fatty, fruit odor and a green, sweet, fresh or apple like flavor. 2-heptenal is also a known uremic toxin (PMID: 22626821). Uremic toxins tend to accumulate in the blood either through dietary excess or through poor filtration by the kidneys. As a uremic toxin, this compound can cause uremic syndrome. Chronic exposure to uremic toxins can lead to a number of conditions including renal damage, chronic kidney disease and cardiovascular disease. This seems to be mediated by the direct binding or inhibition by uremic toxins of the enzyme NADPH oxidase (especially NOX4 which is abundant in the kidneys and heart) (A7868). Shortness of breath from fluid buildup in the space between the lungs and the chest wall (pleural effusion) can also be present in individuals suffering from uremia. Uremia or uremic syndrome can also cause changes in mental status, such as confusion, reduced awareness, agitation, psychosis, seizures, and coma.