L-SELENOCYSTINE

Synonym(s):(R,R)-3,3′-Diseleno-bis(2-aminopropionic acid);L-Selenocystine

CAS NO.：29621-88-3
Empirical Formula: C6H12N2O4Se2
Molecular Weight: 334.09
MDL number: MFCD00800971
EINECS: 608-382-6
SAFETY DATA SHEET (SDS)
Update Date: 2026-05-28 01:28:34

What is L-SELENOCYSTINE?

Description

L-Selenocystine is a diselenide-bridged amino acid that may be confused with selenocysteine (Sec), which is a rare amino acid featuring a single selenium atom. L-Selenocystine is a redox-active selenium compound that has both anti- and pro-oxidant actions. This compound can be reduced by low molecular thiols and disulfide reductases to Sec. It is reduced to Sec by mammalian thioredoxin reductase (apparent K_m = 6.0 μM), and this property can be used to assay thioredoxin reductase activity. L-Selenocystine induces an unfolded protein response, ER stress, and large cytoplasmic vacuolization in HeLa cells and has cytostatic effects in a range of cancer cell types.

Chemical properties

yellow fine powder

The Uses of L-SELENOCYSTINE

Seleno-L-cystine can be used for the synthesis of:

Biologically active selenol compounds.
Non-natural selenylated diamino acids.

Properties of L-SELENOCYSTINE

Melting point:	224.5-229.5 °C (lit.)
Boiling point:	538.3±60.0 °C(Predicted)
storage temp.	2-8°C
solubility	Aqueous Acid (Slightly), Aqueous Base (Slightly)
form	Powder
pka	1.69±0.10(Predicted)
color	Yellow
optical activity	[α]20/D 28°, c = 1 in NaOH
BRN	1969559
Stability:	Hygroscopic

Safety information for L-SELENOCYSTINE

Signal word	Danger
Pictogram(s)	Skull and Crossbones Acute Toxicity GHS06 Health Hazard GHS08 Environment GHS09
GHS Hazard Statements	H373:Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure H410:Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard
Precautionary Statement Codes	P273:Avoid release to the environment. P314:Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell.