MOLECULE

Maleylacetoacetic acid

Maleylacetoacetic acid, also known as 4-maleylacetoacetate, belongs to the class of organic compounds known as medium-chain keto acids and derivatives. These are keto acids with a 6 to 12 carbon atoms long side chain. Maleylacetoacetic acid is a very hydrophobic molecule, practically insoluble (in water), and relatively neutral. Maleylacetoacetic acid exists in all living organisms, ranging from bacteria to humans. Within humans, maleylacetoacetic acid participates in a number of enzymatic reactions. In particular, maleylacetoacetic acid can be converted into 4-fumarylacetoacetic acid through its interaction with the enzyme maleylacetoacetate isomerase. In addition, maleylacetoacetic acid can be biosynthesized from homogentisic acid; which is mediated by the enzyme homogentisate 1,2-dioxygenase. 4-Maleylacetoacetate (4-maleylacetoacetate) is an intermediate in the metabolism of tyrosine. In humans, maleylacetoacetic acid is involved in the metabolic disorder called tyrosinemia type I. Maleylacetoacetic acid is a potentially toxic compound. Maleylacetoacetic acid is expected to be in Cannabis as all living plants are known to produce and metabolize it.