1567

Mercaptoethanol, also recognized as β-mercaptoethanol or 2-mercaptoethanol, has the chemical structure HOCH₂CH₂SH and is widely used in biochemistry for its ability to break down disulfide bonds within proteins, causing their denaturation. This is particularly essential in various lab techniques, including protein analysis and RNA extraction, as it prevents the clumping and breakdown of proteins by enzymes like ribonucleases[1,2]. Industrially, mercaptoethanol is synthesized by combining ethylene oxide with hydrogen sulfide, typically using a catalyst like thiodiglycol. Beyond its primary biochemical uses, it has also been explored for potential health benefits in extending the lifespan and enhancing health indicators in mice, indicating possible significant medical uses[2,3]. In the field of organic chemistry, mercaptoethanol reacts with aldehydes and ketones to create oxathiolanes, which are useful as protective groups in synthetic processes[4].

References 

1. National Institute of Standards and Technology, "Ethanol, 2-mercapto-", NIST Chemistry WebBook, SRD 69. Available at: https://webbook.nist.gov/cgi/cbook.cgi?Name=2-Mercaptoethanol 

2. DrugBank, "Mercaptoethanol: Uses, Interactions, Mechanism of Action", DrugBank Online. Available at: https://go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB03345 

3. "2-Mercaptoethanol," Wikipedia, last modified April 12, 2024. Available at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2-Mercaptoethanol

4. "2-Mercaptoethanol," Chemeurope.com, accessed April 12, 2024. Available at: https://www.chemeurope.com/en/encyclopedia/2-Mercaptoethanol.html

GHS Hazard Statements

• H301 (52.75%): Toxic if swallowed [Danger Acute toxicity, oral]

• H302 (47.25%): Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]

• H310 (43.06%): Fatal in contact with skin [Danger Acute toxicity, dermal]

• H311 (56.94%): Toxic in contact with skin [Danger Acute toxicity, dermal]

• H314 (33.38%): Causes severe skin burns and eye damage [Danger Skin corrosion/irritation]

• H315 (66.49%): Causes skin irritation [Warning Skin corrosion/irritation]

• H317 (55.5%): May cause an allergic skin reaction [Warning Sensitization, Skin]

• H318 (66.1%): Causes serious eye damage [Danger Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

• H331 (63.22%): Toxic if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, inhalation]

• H332 (28.8%): Harmful if inhaled [Warning Acute toxicity, inhalation]

• H336 (12.3%): May cause drowsiness or dizziness [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure; Narcotic effects]

• H361 (19.5%): Suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child [Warning Reproductive toxicity]

• H373 (60.34%): May causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]

• H400 (59.03%): Very toxic to aquatic life [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard]

• H410 (30.24%): Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

• H411 (66.88%): Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

First Aid

• For eye exposure, remove contact lenses, flush with water or saline for 20-30 minutes, and transport to a hospital immediately.

• If skin is exposed, flood with water, wash with soap, and seek medical help for symptoms.

• In case of inhalation, move to fresh air, seek medical attention for symptoms, and provide respiratory protection

• Do not induce vomiting if ingested. Give water if conscious and seek medical advice, considering hospital transport if necessary (NTP, 1992).

National Toxicology Program, Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health (NTP). 1992. National Toxicology Program Chemical Repository Database. Research Triangle Park, North Carolina.

Chemical and Physical Properties

Source: PubChem