Organic Chemistry - Standalone book
Organic Chemistry - Standalone book
10th Edition
ISBN: 9780073511214
Author: Francis A Carey Dr., Robert M. Giuliano
Publisher: McGraw-Hill Education
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Chapter 26, Problem 27P
Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Two α-amino acids which are the biosynthetic precursors of the penicillins are to be identified.

Concept introduction:

Amino acids are the organic compounds containing a carboxylic acid group and one amino acid group with an alkyl group as a side chain.

Amino acids consist of both positive as well negative groups in their structure and are called as ampholytes.

Expert Solution & Answer
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Answer to Problem 27P

Solution: The two α-amino acids which are the biosynthetic precursors of the penicillins are cysteine and valine.

Explanation of Solution

The enzyme-catalyzed process for the conversion of substrates into more complex product that takes place in several steps is known as biosynthesis. In this process, the conversion of simple compounds to macromolecules occurs by modification or by joining of simple compounds. Penicillin is a complex molecule that forms cysteine and valine on breaking.

Therefore, the two α-amino acids that act as the biosynthetic precursors of the penicillins are cysteine and valine as shown below.

Organic Chemistry - Standalone book, Chapter 26, Problem 27P

Conclusion

Cysteine and valine are the two α-amino acids which are the biosynthetic precursors of the penicillins.

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