N-Acetylneuraminic acid (CAS 131-48-6, EC 205-023-1) is the most abundant sialic acid found in human cells. It was originally isolated from bovine submandibular mucin, hence the name sialic acid. Sialic acid is a nine-carbon monosaccharide derivative containing an amino group, which is the general term for all N- or O-derivatives of neuraminic acid or ketone-deoxynonanglutulac (KDN).
Applications: N-Acetylneuraminic acid is a nine-carbon monosaccharide that typically serves as the terminal sugar in cell surface glycoproteins and glycolipids. It is critical for: (1) Infant Nutrition: Often added to infant formulas (as "Bird's Nest Acid") to promote brain development and cognitive function. (2) Pharmaceuticals: A key precursor for anti-influenza drugs like zanamivir. (3) Cosmetics: Used in premium formulations for its anti-inflammatory effects and ability to lighten pigmentation.
Features: (1) Biological: Essential for cell-to-cell recognition and immune response modulation. (2) Physical: Appears as a white crystalline powder and is freely soluble in water.
