Retinoic acid (RA) is a vitamin A-derived, non-peptidic, small lipophilic molecule that mediates the functions of vitamin A required for growth and development. It affects gene transcription and modulates a wide variety of biological processes like Cell Proliferation, Differentiation, including Apoptosis. Retinoic Acid mediated gene transcription depends on the rate of transport of Retinoic Acid to target cells and the timing of exposure of Retinoic Acid to RARs (Retinoic Acid Receptors) in the target tissues.
Retinoic Acid has been used in various differentiation protocols, including B-cells, T cells and neurons and applied clinically to treat cancer as a form of differentiation-induction therapy.
All−trans−Retinoic acid (ATRA) is a ligand for both the retinoic acid receptor (RAR) and the retinoid X receptor (RXR). The bound RAR and RXR act as transcription factors that regulate the growth and differentiation of both normal and malignant cells. Cytochromes P450 (CYPs) catalyze the 4-hydroxylation of ATRA. Retinoic acid primes embryonic stem cells to become neurons.
Key Applications: Signaling molecule, Cancer Research
Application Areas: Cell Biology
Product Type: Biochemicals
Melting Point: 173 - 183°C
UV/Visible Absorbance: λ max (isopropanol + sulfuric acid)=353 ± 3 nm
Presentation: Bright Yellow Powder
Loss on Drying: ≤0.5%
Solubility: Soluble in methanol, chloroform (40 mg/mL) or acetone (30 mg/mL), slightly soluble in ethanol.
Storage & Handling: Store at -20°C, desiccate, protect from light.