Sulbutiamine

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

Introduction

Sulbutiamine is a synthetic derivative of thiamine (vitamin B1), composed of two modified thiamine molecules linked by a sulfur atom, forming a dimer. Unlike thiamine, sulbutiamine is highly lipophilic, which allows it to cross the blood-brain barrier more effectively, enhancing its potential to influence central nervous system function. It is commonly available in powder form for research and supplement use, noted for its potential cognitive-enhancing and fatigue-reducing properties. Sulbutiamine is often studied in contexts involving memory improvement, asthenia treatment, and modulation of neurotransmitter systems. The compound presents as a white solid or powder with limited water solubility but good solubility in organic solvents.

Chemical Properties and Specifications

Structural and Molecular Characteristics

• Chemical Formula: C3232H4646N88O66S22

• Molecular Weight: 702.9 g/mol

• CAS Number: 3286-46-2

• IUPAC Name: (3E)-4-{N-[(4-amino-2-methylpyrimidin-5-yl)methyl]formamido}-3-{[(2E)-2-{N-[(4-amino-2-methylpyrimidin-5-yl)methyl]formamido}-5-(2-methylpropanoyloxy)pent-2-en-3-yl]disulfanyl}pent-3-en-1-yl 2-methylpropanoate

• Synonyms: Bisibuthiamine, Arcalion

Physical Properties and Purity Standards

• Appearance: White crystalline powder or solid

• Purity: Typically ≥98% for research-grade sulbutiamine

• Solubility: Poorly soluble in water (~0.047 mg/mL), highly soluble in organic solvents such as dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) up to 40 mg/mL

• Storage Recommendations: Store powder at -20°C for long-term stability. Solutions should be stored at -80°C if dissolved, to maintain integrity. Protect from light and moisture.

Pharmacological Profile and Mechanism of Action

Proposed Mechanism of Action

Sulbutiamine exerts its effects by increasing the bioavailability of thiamine in the brain, promoting enhanced neuronal energy metabolism. It also modulates dopaminergic and glutamatergic transmission in cortical areas, potentially improving cognitive function and reducing mental fatigue. Studies indicate that chronic administration enhances long-term memory formation and may exert mild psychostimulant activity by affecting neurotransmitter homeostasis.

Research Applications

Sulbutiamine is widely used in neuropharmacological research investigating cognitive enhancement, treatment of asthenia (weakness), and exploration of its potential in neurodegenerative disease models. Additionally, it is explored for its effects on erectile dysfunction and psycho-behavioral inhibition reduction. Animal studies focus on its impact on memory consolidation, neurotransmission, and oxidative stress reduction.

Comparative Analysis with Related Compounds

Comparison with Thiamine and Other B1 Derivatives

Unlike water-soluble thiamine, sulbutiamine’s lipophilic nature allows it to penetrate the central nervous system more readily, resulting in enhanced brain thiamine levels. This improved bioavailability distinguishes it from other thiamine derivatives such as benfotiamine.

Advantages for Research

Sulbutiamine provides researchers with a potent model to study the effects of enhanced cerebral thiamine availability and its downstream impact on cognition, neurotransmitter modulation, and neuroprotection, enabling a clearer understanding of thiamine-related neurochemical pathways.

Safety and Handling Guidelines

Laboratory Safety

Handle sulbutiamine powder with appropriate protective equipment, including gloves and eye protection. Avoid dust inhalation and skin contact. Employ good laboratory practices to minimize exposure risks.

Disposal and Environmental Considerations

Dispose of unused sulbutiamine and waste materials following institutional hazardous chemical guidelines to prevent environmental contamination.

Regulatory Status

Sulbutiamine is classified as a research chemical and dietary supplement depending on jurisdiction. It is not approved as a prescription drug in many countries but is legally available for research and supplement use. Regulatory status varies globally.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is sulbutiamine used for in research?
   It is studied for cognitive enhancement, fatigue reduction, and neuroprotective effects.

2. How does sulbutiamine differ from regular thiamine?
   Sulbutiamine is more lipophilic, allowing better brain penetration and higher cerebral thiamine levels.

3. What solvents dissolve sulbutiamine effectively?
   Sulbutiamine is soluble in organic solvents like DMSO but poorly soluble in water.

4. How should sulbutiamine be stored?
   Store as powder in a cool, dry place at -20°C; solutions require -80°C storage.

5. Is sulbutiamine safe for research use?
   Generally well-tolerated, but appropriate lab safety measures should be followed.

Conclusion

Sulbutiamine is a synthetic thiamine derivative with enhanced lipophilicity, enabling greater brain penetration and promising neurocognitive effects. Its unique chemical structure and pharmacological profile make it a valuable research compound for investigating memory enhancement, neurotransmitter modulation, and fatigue treatment. Careful handling and regulatory adherence are vital for its use in experimental settings.