Pyruvic acid
Agent Name
Pyruvic acid
CAS Number
127-17-3
Formula
C3-H4-O3
Major Category
Biological Agents
Synonyms
2-Ketopropionic acid; 2-Oxopropanoic acid; 2-Oxopropansaeure; 2-Oxopropionic acid; 2-Oxopropionsaeure; Acetylformic acid; BTS; Propanoic acid, 2-oxo-; Pyroracemic acid; Pyruvic acid (natural); alpha-Ketopropionic acid; alpha-Oxopropionsaeure; [ChemIDplus] UN3265
Category
Other Biomolecules
Description
Liquid with an odor like acetic acid; mp = 11.8 deg C; [Merck Index]
Sources/Uses
Intermediate in sugar metabolism and alcoholic fermentation; [Merck Index] Used as flavoring agent or adjuvant; [FDA] "Pyruvic acid supplies energy to living cells through the citric acid cycle (also known as the Krebs cycle) when oxygen is present (aerobic respiration), and alternatively ferments to produce lactic acid when oxygen is lacking (fermentation)." [Wikipedia]
Comments
Causes degenerative changes to brain in acute cerebral studies of rats; [RTECS] Polymerizes and decomposes on standing unless pure and stored in airtight container; [Merck Index] Safe when used as a flavoring agent in food; [JECFA] Causes burns; Inhalation may cause corrosive injuries to upper respiratory tract and lungs; [Sigma-Aldrich MSDS]
Biomedical References
Exposure Assessment
Vapor Pressure
1.29 mm Hg
Explanatory Notes
The Guide in the Emergency Response Guidebook is for "Corrosive liquid, acidic, organic, n.o.s."
Adverse Effects
Toxic Pneumonitis
Yes
Dermatotoxin
Skin burns
Diseases, Processes, and Activities Linked to This Agent
Other Information
No other related information on this agent was found.