MOLECULE

Pyridoxal

Pyridoxal, also known as pyridoxaldehyde, belongs to the class of organic compounds known as pyridoxals and derivatives. Pyridoxals and derivatives are compounds containing a pyridoxal moiety, which consists of a pyridine ring substituted at positions 2,3,4, and 5 by a methyl group, a hydroxyl group, a carbaldehyde group, and a hydroxymethyl group, respectively. The 4-carboxyaldehyde form of vitamin B 6 which is converted to pyridoxal phosphate which is a coenzyme for synthesis of amino acids, neurotransmitters (serotonin, norepinephrine), sphingolipids, aminolevulinic acid. Pyridoxal is a strong basic compound (based on its pKa). Pyridoxal exists in all living species, ranging from bacteria to humans. In humans, pyridoxal is involved in glycine and serine metabolism. Outside of the human body, Pyridoxal is found, on average, in the highest concentration within milk (cow). Pyridoxal has also been detected, but not quantified in, several different foods, such as tarragons, peppermints, jicama, shallots, and dandelions. This could make pyridoxal a potential biomarker for the consumption of these foods. Pyridoxal is a potentially toxic compound. Pyridoxal is the precursor to pyridoxal phosphate. Pyridoxal is expected to be in Cannabis as all living plants are known to produce and metabolize it.