CAS 3617-01-4: 3-(4-chlorophenyl)-2-oxopropanoic acid

4-Chloro-a-oxo-benzenepropanoic acid

3-(4-Chlorophenyl)-2-hydroxyacrylic acid is an intermediate in the biosynthesis of phenylalanine. It has been postulated that this compound may be responsible for the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter. 3-(4-Chlorophenyl)-2-hydroxyacrylic acid is metabolized by the hydroxylation of phenylalanine at position 4 to form 4-chlorophenylpyruvic acid. This process occurs in tissues that synthesize L-phenylalanine, including the brain and liver. The chlorine atom on 3-(4-chlorophenyl)-2-hydroxyacrylic acid can be replaced by a hydrogen atom to form 2,3-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid, which is also found in tissues and is thought to have pharmacologic effects. The nonselective nature of these compounds may lead to carcinoid syndrome if taken in large doses or over a long period of time