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phytol acetate is a naturally occurring or semi-synthetic acetate ester formed from the esterification of phytol, a branched-chain diterpene alcohol, with acetic acid. it may be found in trace amounts in chlorophyll-containing plants, fermented products, or generated during processing of phytol-rich plant materials. this compound is being studied for its bioactivity, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and insect-repellent properties.
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chemical and physical properties
- compound type: acetate ester of phytol
- molecular weight: 324.54 g/mol
- chemical formula: C₂₂H₄₄O₂
- boiling point: not well defined (likely >300°C)
- solubility: insoluble in water; soluble in organic solvents (ethanol, chloroform, oils)
- appearance: oily, colorless to pale yellow liquid
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occurrence and origin
- may occur naturally in plants rich in chlorophyll, particularly during degradation or metabolism of chlorophyll and phytol.
- may also form during fermentation or thermal treatment of green plant matter.
- intentionally synthesized in labs for biological testing or flavor/fragrance applications.
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biological and industrial uses
- exhibits moderate antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects in vitro.
- investigated as a potential bioactive fragrance compound in perfumes and cosmetics.
- serves as an intermediate in the synthesis of vitamin e and vitamin k1 derivatives.
- may have insect-repellent properties when used in essential oil blends.
- acts as a lipophilic carrier or prodrug scaffold in experimental formulations.
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antibacterial and antimicrobial activity
- phytol acetate has shown activity against certain gram-positive bacteria and fungi.
- mechanism likely involves membrane disruption and modulation of microbial enzymes.
- research highlights:
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research links