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DL-3-Phenylalanine (DLPA; NSC 9959)

Cat No.:V68029 Purity: ≥98%
DL-3-Phenylalanine is a phenylalanine analogue.
DL-3-Phenylalanine (DLPA; NSC 9959)
DL-3-Phenylalanine (DLPA; NSC 9959) Chemical Structure CAS No.: 150-30-1
Product category: Amino Acid Derivatives
This product is for research use only, not for human use. We do not sell to patients.
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Other Forms of DL-3-Phenylalanine (DLPA; NSC 9959):

  • DL-3-Phenylalanine-d8
  • DL-3-Phenylalanine-13C-1
  • DL-3-Phenylalanine-15N (DL-phenylalanine 15N)
  • DL-3-Phenylalanine-13C (DL-3-phenylalanine 13C)
  • DL-3-Phenylalanine-13C-2
  • DL-3-Phenylalanine-d2
  • DL-3-Phenylalanine-d1
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Top Publications Citing lnvivochem Products
Product Description
DL-3-Phenylalanine is a phenylalanine analogue.
DL-3-Phenylalanine (DLPA; NSC 9959) is the racemic mixture of D- and L-phenylalanine, an essential amino acid. With a molecular formula of C9H11NO2 and a molecular weight of 165.19, it is a phenylalanine derivative. DLPA is a useful research chemical and has been studied for its potential effects on mood, pain, and cognitive function. As a mixture of both enantiomers, it can serve as a precursor to neurotransmitters such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. It is commercially used in ergogenic supplements and is recognized as a beneficial synergistic food ingredient.
Biological Activity I Assay Protocols (From Reference)
Targets
DL-3-Phenylalanine does not have a single defined primary drug target. As a precursor to the neurotransmitters dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine, its effects are mediated through the modulation of catecholaminergic signaling pathways. L-Phenylalanine is converted to L-tyrosine, which is then converted to L-DOPA and subsequently to dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. D-Phenylalanine may inhibit the enzyme enkephalinase, thereby increasing levels of endogenous enkephalins, which are involved in pain modulation. However, the racemic mixture's overall activity is complex and involves multiple pathways.
ln Vitro
Commercial ergot supplements have been made from amino acids and their derivatives. They affect the release of anabolic hormones, the availability of fuel for activity, the ability to think clearly under pressure, and the prevention of muscular damage brought on by exertion. They are regarded as advantageous synergistic food ingredients [1].
In vitro activity of DL-3-Phenylalanine is related to its role as a precursor for neurotransmitter synthesis and as a component of ergogenic supplements. Amino acid derivatives like DLPA have been commercially used to affect the release of anabolic hormones, the availability of fuel for activity, and the ability to think clearly under pressure. In cell-based assays, phenylalanine can be taken up by cells and metabolized to tyrosine, influencing cellular catecholamine levels. However, the specific in vitro activity of the racemic mixture has not been extensively characterized beyond its metabolic fate and its use as a nutritional supplement.
ln Vivo
In vivo activity of DL-3-Phenylalanine has been studied for its potential effects on mood, pain, and cognitive function. As a precursor to catecholamines, it may influence neurotransmitter levels in the brain. D-Phenylalanine's inhibition of enkephalinase may contribute to analgesic effects. DLPA has been investigated in clinical studies for its potential benefits in depression, chronic pain, and Parkinson's disease. However, the evidence for its efficacy is mixed, and it is not approved as a drug for these indications. It is primarily used as a dietary supplement.
Enzyme Assay
In vitro enzyme/receptor binding assays for DL-3-Phenylalanine could focus on its interactions with enzymes involved in neurotransmitter synthesis or degradation. For example, the activity of phenylalanine hydroxylase, which converts phenylalanine to tyrosine, could be measured in the presence of the compound. Additionally, the inhibition of enkephalinase by D-phenylalanine could be assessed using a fluorogenic substrate. These assays would help elucidate the compound's mechanism of action at the molecular level.
Cell Assay
Cell-based assays for DL-3-Phenylalanine could involve measuring its effects on neurotransmitter synthesis in neuronal cell lines. For example, PC12 cells or other catecholaminergic cells could be treated with DLPA, and the levels of dopamine, norepinephrine, and their metabolites could be measured using HPLC or ELISA. This assay would directly assess the compound's ability to influence neurotransmitter production in a cellular context.
Animal Protocol
In vivo animal experiments for DL-3-Phenylalanine have been conducted in various models. For example, in rodent models of depression, DLPA has been tested for its antidepressant-like effects using the forced swim test or tail suspension test. In pain models, such as the hot plate test or formalin test, its analgesic effects have been evaluated. These experiments help determine the compound's potential therapeutic applications in mood disorders and pain management.
ADME/Pharmacokinetics
Pharmacokinetic properties of DL-3-Phenylalanine have been studied as it is a naturally occurring amino acid. It is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract via amino acid transporters and distributed throughout the body. It crosses the blood-brain barrier via the large neutral amino acid transporter (LAT1). Phenylalanine is metabolized primarily in the liver by phenylalanine hydroxylase to tyrosine. The half-life of phenylalanine in plasma is approximately 1-2 hours. However, the pharmacokinetics of the racemic mixture may differ slightly from the individual enantiomers.
Toxicity/Toxicokinetics
The toxicity profile of DL-3-Phenylalanine is generally considered to be low, as it is a naturally occurring amino acid. However, high doses can lead to elevated phenylalanine levels, which may be problematic for individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU), a genetic disorder that impairs phenylalanine metabolism. In healthy individuals, excessive intake may cause side effects such as nausea, heartburn, and headache. Chronic toxicity and carcinogenicity studies have not been extensively conducted for the racemic mixture.
References

[1]. Effects of amino acid derivatives on physical, mental, and physiological activities. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2015;55(13):1793-807.

Additional Infomation
Phenylalanine is an aromatic amino acid, formed by replacing one methyl hydrogen atom of alanine with a phenyl group. It is a metabolite of the large flea (Daphnia magna). It is an α-amino acid and also an aromatic amino acid. It contains a benzyl group. It is both the conjugate base and conjugate acid of phenylalanine. DL-phenylalanine has been reported to exist in Atractylodes japonica, soybean (Glycine max), and other organisms with relevant data. DL-phenylalanine is a racemic mixture of phenylalanine, an aromatic amino acid with antidepressant, analgesic, and appetite-suppressing effects. The antidepressant effect of DL-phenylalanine may be related to its precursor role in the synthesis of the neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine. Elevated levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain are thought to be associated with antidepressant effects. This medication also helps alleviate mood swings associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS), improves energy and mental alertness, and enhances focus in patients with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
See also: Phenylalanine (note moved to).
DL-3-Phenylalanine (DLPA) is a racemic mixture of phenylalanine enantiomers used as a research chemical and dietary supplement. It is not a drug and has no approved therapeutic indications. It has been investigated for its potential benefits in mood disorders, pain management, and cognitive enhancement. The compound is commercially available from various suppliers for research purposes. Its primary applications are in nutritional science and pharmacology research. It is also known as 2-amino-3-phenylpropionic acid.
These protocols are for reference only. InvivoChem does not independently validate these methods.
Physicochemical Properties
Molecular Formula
C9H11NO2
Molecular Weight
165.19
Exact Mass
165.078
CAS #
150-30-1
Related CAS #
DL-3-Phenylalanine-d8;29909-00-0;DL-3-Phenylalanine-13C-1;64193-01-7;DL-3-Phenylalanine-15N;81387-53-3;DL-3-Phenylalanine-13C;286425-42-1;DL-3-Phenylalanine-d2;74228-83-4;DL-3-Phenylalanine-d;14246-24-3
PubChem CID
994
Appearance
White to off-white solid powder
Density
1.2±0.1 g/cm3
Boiling Point
307.5±30.0 °C at 760 mmHg
Melting Point
266-267ºC
Flash Point
139.8±24.6 °C
Vapour Pressure
0.0±0.7 mmHg at 25°C
Index of Refraction
1.576
LogP
1.11
Hydrogen Bond Donor Count
2
Hydrogen Bond Acceptor Count
3
Rotatable Bond Count
3
Heavy Atom Count
12
Complexity
153
Defined Atom Stereocenter Count
0
SMILES
O([H])C(C([H])(C([H])([H])C1C([H])=C([H])C([H])=C([H])C=1[H])N([H])[H])=O
InChi Key
COLNVLDHVKWLRT-UHFFFAOYSA-N
InChi Code
InChI=1S/C9H11NO2/c10-8(9(11)12)6-7-4-2-1-3-5-7/h1-5,8H,6,10H2,(H,11,12)
Chemical Name
2-amino-3-phenylpropanoic acid
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

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)
May dissolve in DMSO (in most cases), if not, try other solvents such as H2O, Ethanol, or DMF with a minute amount of products to avoid loss of samples
Solubility (In Vivo)
Note: Listed below are some common formulations that may be used to formulate products with low water solubility (e.g. < 1 mg/mL), you may test these formulations using a minute amount of products to avoid loss of samples.

Injection Formulations
(e.g. IP/IV/IM/SC)
Injection Formulation 1: DMSO : Tween 80: Saline = 10 : 5 : 85 (i.e. 100 μL DMSO stock solution 50 μL Tween 80 850 μL Saline)
*Preparation of saline: Dissolve 0.9 g of sodium chloride in 100 mL ddH ₂ O to obtain a clear solution.
Injection Formulation 2: DMSO : PEG300Tween 80 : Saline = 10 : 40 : 5 : 45 (i.e. 100 μL DMSO 400 μLPEG300 50 μL Tween 80 450 μL Saline)
Injection Formulation 3: DMSO : Corn oil = 10 : 90 (i.e. 100 μL DMSO 900 μL Corn oil)
Example: Take the Injection Formulation 3 (DMSO : Corn oil = 10 : 90) as an example, if 1 mL of 2.5 mg/mL working solution is to be prepared, you can take 100 μL 25 mg/mL DMSO stock solution and add to 900 μL corn oil, mix well to obtain a clear or suspension solution (2.5 mg/mL, ready for use in animals).
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Injection Formulation 4: DMSO : 20% SBE-β-CD in saline = 10 : 90 [i.e. 100 μL DMSO 900 μL (20% SBE-β-CD in saline)]
*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.
Injection Formulation 5: 2-Hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin : Saline = 50 : 50 (i.e. 500 μL 2-Hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin 500 μL Saline)
Injection Formulation 6: DMSO : PEG300 : castor oil : Saline = 5 : 10 : 20 : 65 (i.e. 50 μL DMSO 100 μLPEG300 200 μL castor oil 650 μL Saline)
Injection Formulation 7: Ethanol : Cremophor : Saline = 10: 10 : 80 (i.e. 100 μL Ethanol 100 μL Cremophor 800 μL Saline)
Injection Formulation 8: Dissolve in Cremophor/Ethanol (50 : 50), then diluted by Saline
Injection Formulation 9: EtOH : Corn oil = 10 : 90 (i.e. 100 μL EtOH 900 μL Corn oil)
Injection Formulation 10: EtOH : PEG300Tween 80 : Saline = 10 : 40 : 5 : 45 (i.e. 100 μL EtOH 400 μLPEG300 50 μL Tween 80 450 μL Saline)


Oral Formulations
Oral Formulation 1: Suspend in 0.5% CMC Na (carboxymethylcellulose sodium)
Oral Formulation 2: Suspend in 0.5% Carboxymethyl cellulose
Example: Take the Oral Formulation 1 (Suspend in 0.5% CMC Na) as an example, if 100 mL of 2.5 mg/mL working solution is to be prepared, you can first prepare 0.5% CMC Na solution by measuring 0.5 g CMC Na and dissolve it in 100 mL ddH2O to obtain a clear solution; then add 250 mg of the product to 100 mL 0.5% CMC Na solution, to make the suspension solution (2.5 mg/mL, ready for use in animals).
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Oral Formulation 3: Dissolved in PEG400
Oral Formulation 4: Suspend in 0.2% Carboxymethyl cellulose
Oral Formulation 5: Dissolve in 0.25% Tween 80 and 0.5% Carboxymethyl cellulose
Oral Formulation 6: Mixing with food powders


Note: Please be aware that the above formulations are for reference only. InvivoChem strongly recommends customers to read literature methods/protocols carefully before determining which formulation you should use for in vivo studies, as different compounds have different solubility properties and have to be formulated differently.

 (Please use freshly prepared in vivo formulations for optimal results.)
Preparing Stock Solutions 1 mg 5 mg 10 mg
1 mM 6.0536 mL 30.2682 mL 60.5364 mL
5 mM 1.2107 mL 6.0536 mL 12.1073 mL
10 mM 0.6054 mL 3.0268 mL 6.0536 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.

Calculator

Molarity Calculator allows you to calculate the mass, volume, and/or concentration required for a solution, as detailed below:

  • Calculate the Mass of a compound required to prepare a solution of known volume and concentration
  • Calculate the Volume of solution required to dissolve a compound of known mass to a desired concentration
  • Calculate the Concentration of a solution resulting from a known mass of compound in a specific volume
An example of molarity calculation using the molarity calculator is shown below:
What is the mass of compound required to make a 10 mM stock solution in 5 ml of DMSO given that the molecular weight of the compound is 350.26 g/mol?
  • Enter 350.26 in the Molecular Weight (MW) box
  • Enter 10 in the Concentration box and choose the correct unit (mM)
  • Enter 5 in the Volume box and choose the correct unit (mL)
  • Click the “Calculate” button
  • The answer of 17.513 mg appears in the Mass box. In a similar way, you may calculate the volume and concentration.

Dilution Calculator allows you to calculate how to dilute a stock solution of known concentrations. For example, you may Enter C1, C2 & V2 to calculate V1, as detailed below:

What volume of a given 10 mM stock solution is required to make 25 ml of a 25 μM solution?
Using the equation C1V1 = C2V2, where C1=10 mM, C2=25 μM, V2=25 ml and V1 is the unknown:
  • Enter 10 into the Concentration (Start) box and choose the correct unit (mM)
  • Enter 25 into the Concentration (End) box and select the correct unit (mM)
  • Enter 25 into the Volume (End) box and choose the correct unit (mL)
  • Click the “Calculate” button
  • The answer of 62.5 μL (0.1 ml) appears in the Volume (Start) box
g/mol

Molecular Weight Calculator allows you to calculate the molar mass and elemental composition of a compound, as detailed below:

Note: Chemical formula is case sensitive: C12H18N3O4  c12h18n3o4
Instructions to calculate molar mass (molecular weight) of a chemical compound:
  • To calculate molar mass of a chemical compound, please enter the chemical/molecular formula and click the “Calculate’ button.
Definitions of molecular mass, molecular weight, molar mass and molar weight:
  • Molecular mass (or molecular weight) is the mass of one molecule of a substance and is expressed in the unified atomic mass units (u). (1 u is equal to 1/12 the mass of one atom of carbon-12)
  • Molar mass (molar weight) is the mass of one mole of a substance and is expressed in g/mol.
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Reconstitution Calculator allows you to calculate the volume of solvent required to reconstitute your vial.

  • Enter the mass of the reagent and the desired reconstitution concentration as well as the correct units
  • Click the “Calculate” button
  • The answer appears in the Volume (to add to vial) box
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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