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Ectoine

Chemical compound From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Ectoine
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Ectoine (3,4,5,6-tetrahydro-2-methyl-4-pyrimidinecarboxylic acid) is a natural compound found in several species of bacteria. It is a compatible solute which serves as a protective substance by acting as an osmolyte and thus helps organisms survive extreme osmotic stress.[3] Furthermore it was shown to protect DNA against ionizing and ultraviolet radiation serving as a radical scavenger.[4] Ectoine is found in high concentrations in halophilic microorganisms and confers resistance towards salt and temperature stress. Ectoine was first identified in the microorganism Ectothiorhodospira halochloris,[5][6] but has since been found in a wide range of Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. Other species of bacteria in which ectoine was found include:

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Biosynthesis

Ectoine is synthesized in three successive enzymatic reactions starting from aspartic β-semialdehyde. The genes involved in the biosynthesis are called ectA, ectB and ectC, and they encode the enzymes L-2,4-diaminobutyric acid acetyltransferase, L-2,4-diaminobutyric acid transaminase and L-ectoine synthase, respectively.[8][7]

Use in cosmetics

Ectoine is used as an active ingredient in skin care and sun protection products.[13] It stabilizes proteins and other cellular structures and protects the skin from stresses like UV irradiation and dryness.[7]

Medical use

Due to its protein stabilizing properties, ectoine has been evaluated as a topical treatment for hay fever. Effectiveness of a nasal spray containing ectoine is comparable to cromoglycate and is reported to be well tolerated by the patients.[14] It is available over the counter in the European Union.

References

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