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H-D-Phe-NH2.HCl

Cat No.:V36191 Purity: ≥98%
PCPA methyl ester HCl (4-Chloro-DL-phenylalanine methyl ester HCl) is a reversible inhibitor of tryptophan hydroxylase and a 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) synthesis inhibitor.
H-D-Phe-NH2.HCl
H-D-Phe-NH2.HCl Chemical Structure CAS No.: 14173-40-1
Product category: Peptides
This product is for research use only, not for human use. We do not sell to patients.
Size Price Stock Qty
1g
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Product Description
PCPA methyl ester HCl (4-Chloro-DL-phenylalanine methyl ester HCl) is a reversible inhibitor of tryptophan hydroxylase and a 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) synthesis inhibitor. PCPA methyl ester HCl penetrates the BBB (blood-brain barrier) and reduces the central utilization of 5-HT.
H-D-Phe-NH₂.HCl (CAS# 14173-40-1), also known as 4-chloro-DL-phenylalanine methyl ester hydrochloride or PCPA methyl ester HCl, is a reversible inhibitor of tryptophan hydroxylase, the rate-limiting enzyme in serotonin (5-HT) synthesis. This compound is widely used in neuroscience research to deplete serotonin levels in the brain, enabling studies of serotonergic system function. It penetrates the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and reduces central utilization of 5-HT. PCPA methyl ester HCl is a valuable tool for investigating the role of serotonin in mood regulation, sleep, appetite, and other physiological processes. It is primarily used in animal models of depression, anxiety, and other psychiatric disorders.
Biological Activity I Assay Protocols (From Reference)
Targets
The primary target of H-D-Phe-NH₂.HCl is tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH), the enzyme responsible for converting tryptophan to 5-hydroxytryptophan, the first and rate-limiting step in serotonin biosynthesis. By irreversibly inhibiting this enzyme, the compound depletes serotonin (5-HT) levels in the brain and peripheral tissues. TPH exists in two isoforms: TPH1 (peripheral) and TPH2 (neuronal). PCPA methyl ester HCl inhibits both isoforms, leading to widespread serotonin depletion. The compound does not significantly affect other neurotransmitter systems at standard doses, making it a relatively selective tool for studying serotonergic function.
ln Vitro
In vitro studies have demonstrated that PCPA methyl ester HCl effectively inhibits tryptophan hydroxylase activity in cell-free systems and in cell cultures. The compound has been shown to reduce serotonin levels in various neuronal cell lines and primary neuronal cultures. Research indicates that PCPA treatment decreases 5-HT synthesis without affecting other neurotransmitters such as dopamine or norepinephrine. The inhibitory effect is time- and dose-dependent, with maximal inhibition observed within 24-48 hours of treatment. The compound has also been used to study the role of serotonin in cellular processes such as proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis.
ln Vivo
In the hippocampus and cortex, treatment with PCPA alkaline hydrochloride (250–500 mg/kg; epidermal preparation; once daily; for 8 weeks) dramatically lowers serotonin levels [3]. In the C57BL/6 elite alligator model, 5-HT levels were decreased by 85% and 55%, respectively, in the hippocampal regions of mice administered PCPA methyl ester hydrochloride via lateral or intraperitoneal injection, and by the same amounts, in the forehead muscles. 50% and 65% less (frontal)
In vivo studies have extensively characterized the effects of PCPA methyl ester HCl on serotonin levels in animal models. In the hippocampus and cortex, treatment with PCPA hydrochloride (250-500 mg/kg; oral administration; once daily; for 8 weeks) dramatically lowers serotonin levels. In the C57BL/6 mouse model, 5-HT levels were decreased by 85% and 55%, respectively, in the hippocampal regions of mice administered PCPA methyl ester hydrochloride via lateral or intraperitoneal injection. The compound has been shown to produce behavioral effects consistent with serotonin depletion, including increased aggression, disrupted sleep-wake cycles, and altered feeding behavior.
Enzyme Assay
In vitro tryptophan hydroxylase inhibition assays typically use enzyme preparations from rat brainstem or recombinant TPH isoforms. A standard protocol involves incubating the enzyme with varying concentrations of PCPA methyl ester HCl (typically 0.1-1000 µM) in assay buffer containing tryptophan, BH₄ (tetrahydrobiopterin) as cofactor, and DTT. The reaction is carried out at 37°C for 30-60 minutes. The production of 5-hydroxytryptophan is measured using HPLC with electrochemical or fluorescence detection. IC₅₀ values are calculated from dose-response curves. For receptor binding studies, radioligand binding assays with serotonin receptors may be performed to confirm selectivity.
Cell Assay
In vitro cellular assays for PCPA methyl ester HCl typically employ serotonergic cell lines such as RN46A-B14 cells or primary raphe neuron cultures. Cells are seeded in appropriate culture vessels and treated with varying concentrations of the compound (typically 1-1000 µM) for 24-72 hours. Serotonin levels are measured in cell lysates and culture medium using ELISA or HPLC. Cell viability is assessed using MTT or LDH assays. The effects on serotonin synthesis, reuptake, and degradation can be evaluated. Gene expression of TPH and other serotonergic markers can be analyzed by qPCR.
Animal Protocol
Animal/Disease Models: C57BL/6 elite male mice (3 months old) [3]
Doses: 500mg/kg daily for the first 2 days, 250mg/kg per day for the remaining treatments [3].
Route of Administration: Oral administration; daily; lasts 8 weeks
Experimental Results: Significant decreases in serotonin levels in the hippocampus and cortex.
In vivo animal studies with PCPA methyl ester HCl typically use rodent models such as C57BL/6 mice or Sprague-Dawley rats. A standard protocol involves oral administration of the compound at 500 mg/kg daily for the first 2 days, followed by 250 mg/kg per day for the remaining treatment period (total 8 weeks). The compound is dissolved in sterile saline or PBS. Behavioral testing (e.g., open field test, elevated plus maze, forced swim test) is performed at various time points. Brain tissue is harvested for measurement of serotonin, 5-HIAA, and other neurotransmitter levels using HPLC. Histological analysis may be performed to assess neuronal integrity.
ADME/Pharmacokinetics
PCPA methyl ester HCl (molecular weight 250.12 g/mol) is a small, lipophilic molecule that readily penetrates the blood-brain barrier. The compound has a melting point of 186-189°C. It is soluble in aqueous solutions and organic solvents. The methyl ester is susceptible to hydrolysis, releasing the active PCPA free acid. Following absorption, the compound distributes widely throughout the body, including the brain. The half-life in rodents is approximately 2-4 hours. Metabolism occurs primarily in the liver via ester hydrolysis and oxidative pathways, with excretion occurring via renal clearance.
Toxicity/Toxicokinetics
PCPA methyl ester HCl exhibits moderate toxicity at therapeutic doses. Common adverse effects include gastrointestinal discomfort and weight loss. At high doses, the compound may cause neurotoxicity and behavioral abnormalities. The compound is classified as harmful if swallowed. Skin and eye contact should be avoided. Inhalation of dust may cause respiratory irritation. The compound should be handled with appropriate personal protective equipment in a fume hood.
References

[1]. Sedative and hypnotic effects of Vaccinium bracteatum Thunb. through the regulation of serotonegic and GABA A-ergic systems: Involvement of 5-HT 1A receptor agonistic activity. Biomed Pharmacother. 2019 Jan;109:2218-2227.

[2]. Transient serotonin depletion at adolescence, but not at early infancy, reduced subsequent anxiety-like behavior and alcohol intake in female mice. Psychopharmacology (Berl). 2021 Jan;238(1):215-225.

[3]. Neurochemical, Behavioral, and Neurogenic Validation of a Hyposerotonergic Animal Model by Voluntary Oral Consumption of para-Chlorophenylalanine. ACS Chem Neurosci. 2020 Mar 18;11(6):952-959.

Additional Infomation
H-D-Phe-NH₂.HCl is supplied as a white to off-white solid powder with ≥98% purity. The compound has a molecular formula of C₁₀H₁₃Cl₂NO₂. It should be stored as a powder at -20°C for up to 3 years, at 4°C for up to 2 years, and in solution at -80°C for 6 months or -20°C for 1 month. The product is for research use only and is not approved for human therapeutic applications. It is widely used in neuroscience research to study the serotonergic system.
These protocols are for reference only. InvivoChem does not independently validate these methods.
Physicochemical Properties
Molecular Formula
C10H13CL2NO2
Molecular Weight
250.1217
Exact Mass
249.032
CAS #
14173-40-1
PubChem CID
2733277
Appearance
White to off-white solid powder
Boiling Point
296.3ºC at 760 mmHg
Melting Point
186-189 °C(lit.)
Flash Point
133ºC
LogP
2.885
Hydrogen Bond Donor Count
2
Hydrogen Bond Acceptor Count
3
Rotatable Bond Count
4
Heavy Atom Count
15
Complexity
191
Defined Atom Stereocenter Count
0
SMILES
COC(=O)C(CC1=CC=C(C=C1)Cl)N.Cl
InChi Key
GCBCWTWQAFLKJG-UHFFFAOYSA-N
InChi Code
InChI=1S/C10H12ClNO2.ClH/c1-14-10(13)9(12)6-7-2-4-8(11)5-3-7;/h2-5,9H,6,12H2,1H3;1H
Chemical Name
methyl 2-amino-3-(4-chlorophenyl)propanoate;hydrochloride
HS Tariff Code
2934.99.9001
Storage

Powder      -20°C    3 years

                     4°C     2 years

In solvent   -80°C    6 months

                  -20°C    1 month

Note: Please store this product in a sealed and protected environment, avoid exposure to moisture.
Shipping Condition
Room temperature (This product is stable at ambient temperature for a few days during ordinary shipping and time spent in Customs)
Solubility Data
Solubility (In Vitro)
H2O : ~50 mg/mL (~199.90 mM)
DMSO : ~50 mg/mL (~199.90 mM)
Solubility (In Vivo)
Solubility in Formulation 1: ≥ 5 mg/mL (19.99 mM) (saturation unknown) in 10% DMSO + 40% PEG300 + 5% Tween80 + 45% Saline (add these co-solvents sequentially from left to right, and one by one), clear solution.
For example, if 1 mL of working solution is to be prepared, you can add 100 μL of 50.0 mg/mL clear DMSO stock solution to 400 μL PEG300 and mix evenly; then add 50 μL Tween-80 to the above solution and mix evenly; then add 450 μL normal saline to adjust the volume to 1 mL.
Preparation of saline: Dissolve 0.9 g of sodium chloride in 100 mL ddH₂ O to obtain a clear solution.

Solubility in Formulation 2: ≥ 5 mg/mL (19.99 mM) (saturation unknown) in 10% DMSO + 90% (20% SBE-β-CD in Saline) (add these co-solvents sequentially from left to right, and one by one), clear solution.
For example, if 1 mL of working solution is to be prepared, you can add 100 μL of 50.0 mg/mL clear DMSO stock solution to 900 μL of 20% SBE-β-CD physiological saline solution and mix evenly.
Preparation of 20% SBE-β-CD in Saline (4°C,1 week): Dissolve 2 g SBE-β-CD in 10 mL saline to obtain a clear solution.

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Solubility in Formulation 3: ≥ 5 mg/mL (19.99 mM) (saturation unknown) in 10% DMSO + 90% Corn Oil (add these co-solvents sequentially from left to right, and one by one), clear solution.
For example, if 1 mL of working solution is to be prepared, you can add 100 μL of 50.0 mg/mL clear DMSO stock solution to 900 μL of corn oil and mix evenly.


Solubility in Formulation 4: 100 mg/mL (399.81 mM) in PBS (add these co-solvents sequentially from left to right, and one by one), clear solution; with ultrasonication.

 (Please use freshly prepared in vivo formulations for optimal results.)
Preparing Stock Solutions 1 mg 5 mg 10 mg
1 mM 3.9981 mL 19.9904 mL 39.9808 mL
5 mM 0.7996 mL 3.9981 mL 7.9962 mL
10 mM 0.3998 mL 1.9990 mL 3.9981 mL

*Note: Please select an appropriate solvent for the preparation of stock solution based on your experiment needs. For most products, DMSO can be used for preparing stock solutions (e.g. 5 mM, 10 mM, or 20 mM concentration); some products with high aqueous solubility may be dissolved in water directly. Solubility information is available at the above Solubility Data section. Once the stock solution is prepared, aliquot it to routine usage volumes and store at -20°C or -80°C. Avoid repeated freeze and thaw cycles.

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What volume of a given 10 mM stock solution is required to make 25 ml of a 25 μM solution?
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Note: Chemical formula is case sensitive: C12H18N3O4  c12h18n3o4
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In vivo Formulation Calculator (Clear solution)
Step 1: Enter information below (Recommended: An additional animal to make allowance for loss during the experiment)
Step 2: Enter in vivo formulation (This is only a calculator, not the exact formulation for a specific product. Please contact us first if there is no in vivo formulation in the solubility section.)
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Calculation results

Working concentration mg/mL;

Method for preparing DMSO stock solution mg drug pre-dissolved in μL DMSO (stock solution concentration mg/mL). Please contact us first if the concentration exceeds the DMSO solubility of the batch of drug.

Method for preparing in vivo formulation:Take μL DMSO stock solution, next add μL PEG300, mix and clarify, next addμL Tween 80, mix and clarify, next add μL ddH2O,mix and clarify.

(1) Please be sure that the solution is clear before the addition of next solvent. Dissolution methods like vortex, ultrasound or warming and heat may be used to aid dissolving.
             (2) Be sure to add the solvent(s) in order.

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