(4S)-4-Cyclohexyl-L-Proline is a non-proteinogenic amino acid. Chemists often look for precise materials for targeted synthesis and this compound offers a cyclohexyl group substituted on the pyrrolidine ring, making it unique. The sample’s L-proline core shows up in its physical characteristics such as a crystalline or powder state depending on humidity, purity, and storage. This variant’s cyclohexyl group brings a rigid, bulky configuration to peptide chains, often enhancing selective binding in research targeting new pharmaceuticals. Those working in peptide chemistry value these specific attributes because they can fine-tune molecular recognition, supporting drug discovery by building unique bicycles and mimicking protein functions.
With a molecular formula of C11H19NO2, (4S)-4-Cyclohexyl-L-Proline shows a molar mass near 197.28 g/mol. The structure features a proline skeleton—a five-membered pyrrolidine ring with a substituted cyclohexyl group at the fourth position. This arrangement supports both enhanced sterics and hydrophobicity, offering chemists routes to modify peptides structurally and conformationally. The compound usually appears as a white to off-white crystalline solid, which helps with clear identification and quality control. In research labs, crystals and fine powders are common forms; these materials blend into solvents like water or methanol for further reactions or testing. Chemists recognize the refractive quality and high melting point due to ring stability.
In terms of density, measured samples usually sit around 1.15–1.25 g/cm³, giving a substantial but handleable solid that transfers well from stock jars to analytical balances or synthetic vials. The material may look like compact flakes or small pearls. For safe handling, lab professionals rely on gloves, lab coats, and eye protection, as the solid can cause irritation on contact or inhalation. MSDS sheets typically label it as harmful if swallowed or inhaled in large quantities. Storage at room temperature, shielded from light and moisture, reduces the risk of degradation or hazardous dust formation. In the lab, its solid crystalline form enables accurate weighing for formulations. Its presence only as a solid or powder (not as a liquid at standard temperature and pressure) assures stability for inventory and shelf storage.
As a raw material, (4S)-4-Cyclohexyl-L-Proline plays a functional role not just in peptide synthesis but also in polymer and chiral catalyst research. Researchers often need raw materials with proven purity, so analysis through NMR, IR, and elemental tests provides assurance about minimal contaminants. This compound’s defined melting and boiling points allow for repeatable experimental conditions.
For customs and logistics, the compound uses HS Code 2933.99, falling under heterocyclic compounds with nitrogen heteroatom(s) only. The code streamlines international shipping and regulatory reviews. Regulations in most countries do not flag this compound as a high-hazard chemical; still, safe transport and documentation remain standard. Waste generated during synthetic processes must go into appropriate chemical waste streams, following local environmental rules.
Molecular properties influence its use in solution chemistry and solid-phase synthesis. When dissolved, the material reacts smoothly due to its structural integrity, producing reliable coupling in peptide reactions. In solution, clear measurement of solubility aids efficiency. Many research groups evaluate stability in acidic or basic media before scaling up synthesis; a strong, compact structure brings resistance to unwanted side reactions. Lab teams should use freshly prepared or well-sealed solutions, limiting exposure to moisture or airborne contaminants.
Laboratory staff handle this compound with methods typically accepted for fine organic powders. Although not labeled as a severe hazard under GHS, its powder can cause mild irritation if inhaled over long periods or touched without gloves. Work under a chemical hood limits dust exposure and keeps benchtops clear of cleanup issues. In spill situations, avoid sweeping by hand to stop particles from becoming airborne. While not listed on most restricted lists, its molecular structure—especially the proline backbone—can produce analogs with different levels of bioactivity, so accountability and inventory records play a big part in responsible management.
For chemists designing novel therapeutics, (4S)-4-Cyclohexyl-L-Proline’s availability as a raw material opens up new routes in backbone design for molecules with targeted conformational parameters. Bioactive analogs drawn from this backbone often boost selectivity, metabolic stability, and oral bioavailability, which all matter when moving a compound from bench to clinic. Material suppliers offering high-grade, traceable samples improve confidence in downstream studies. From direct experience in peptide research, investing in high-purity proline derivatives saves troubleshooting time and enables focus on data instead of purification. Analytical work on site can double-check vendor claims with HPLC, NMR, and MS.
Researchers should expect to receive (4S)-4-Cyclohexyl-L-Proline as a solid—either as irregular flakes, fine powder, or tight crystalline aggregates depending on the grade. Those forms make it easy to transfer, dissolve, and react. Density readings confirm uniform samples and help avoid dosing or solubility errors. Practical solvent compatibility helps pick out water, methanol, or acetonitrile as reliable choices. Its solid form stands out for ease of storage, less risk of chemical change, and simpler waste handling. No matter how the lab uses it—chiral auxiliary, polymer modification, screening tool—the material rewards care in handling and tight adherence to procedures set by safety data sheets and regulatory guidance.
