Anthranilic acid is the organic compound with the formula C₆H₄(NH₂)CO₂H. This amino acid is white solid when pure, although commercial samples may appear yellow. The molecule consists of a benzene ring with two adjacent functional groups, a carboxylic acid and an amine. Because these two groups are polar, this organic compound is highly soluble in water. It is sometimes referred to as vitamin L.

Biological role

Anthranilic acid is biosynthesized from chorismic acid. It is the precursor to the amino acid tryptophan via the attachment of phosphoribosyl pyrophosphate to the amine group.

Uses

Anthranilic acid is used as an intermediate for production of dyes, pigments, and saccharin. It and its esters are used in preparing perfumes to imitate jasmine and orange, pharmaceuticals ( loop diuretics eg. furosemide) and UV-absorber as well as corrosion inhibitors for metals and mold inhibitors in soya sauce.

Anthranilic acid can be used in organic synthesis to generate the benzyne intermediate.^[1]

See also

• Kynureninase

References

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