Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients

CAS 709611-53-0

Catalog W888521

Property	Details
Chemical Name	Methoxy – polyethyleneglycol – L – glycolic acid
CAS Number	Specific CAS number may vary depending on the degree of polymerization of the polyethylene glycol (PEG) chain. The PEG – related compounds often have a range of CAS numbers associated with different molecular weights. For a more accurate CAS number, one would need to know the exact length of the PEG chain in the molecule.
Molecular Formula	The molecule consists of a methoxy group (-OCH₃) at one end, followed by a polyethylene glycol chain with the general formula (C₂H₄O)ₙ, and an L – glycolic acid moiety (-CH(OH)COOH) at the other end. So the overall formula can be written as CH₃O(C₂H₄O)ₙCH(OH)COOH, where ‘n’ represents the number of ethylene oxide units in the PEG chain.
Molecular Weight	The molecular weight is highly dependent on the value of ‘n’. The molecular weight of the methoxy group is approximately 31 g/mol, the L – glycolic acid moiety is about 76 g/mol, and each ethylene oxide unit in the PEG chain has a molecular weight of 44 g/mol. So the molecular weight of Methoxy – polyethyleneglycol – L – glycolic acid is \(31 + 44n+76\) g/mol, which can range from a few hundred to several thousand daltons depending on the length of the PEG chain.
Molecular Structure	The structure has a linear arrangement. The methoxy group is at the terminal end, followed by the flexible PEG chain made up of repeating ethylene oxide units. The L – glycolic acid is attached to the other end of the PEG chain. The PEG chain provides hydrophilicity to the molecule, while the L – glycolic acid contains a carboxylic acid group which can participate in chemical reactions such as esterification.
Appearance	It typically appears as a white to off – white solid or a viscous liquid, depending on the molecular weight. Lower molecular weight forms may be more liquid – like, while higher molecular weight forms tend to be solid. The solid forms may be in a powder or flake – like appearance.
Solubility	Due to the hydrophilic nature of the PEG chain, Methoxy – polyethyleneglycol – L – glycolic acid is highly soluble in water. It also shows good solubility in many polar organic solvents such as ethanol, methanol, and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). The carboxylic acid group can further enhance solubility in aqueous solutions at appropriate pH values, as it can ionize.
Function in Industry	Biomedical Applications: Drug Delivery: It is commonly used in drug delivery systems. The PEG chain provides stealth properties, reducing the recognition of the drug – carrier complex by the immune system. The L – glycolic acid moiety can be used to conjugate drugs or other bioactive molecules through chemical reactions. For example, drugs can be attached to the carboxylic acid group of L – glycolic acid via ester linkages, and the resulting conjugate can be used to control the release of the drug. Tissue Engineering: In tissue engineering, it can be used to modify the surface of scaffolds. The PEG chain can improve the biocompatibility of the scaffold, and the L – glycolic acid can be used to introduce functional groups for cell adhesion or to cross – link with other biomolecules. Cosmetics: In cosmetics, it can be used as a humectant and a skin – conditioning agent. The PEG part helps in retaining moisture, while the molecule as a whole can improve the texture and feel of cosmetic products.
Stability	It is generally stable under normal storage conditions, i.e., at room temperature in a dry and dark place. However, the carboxylic acid group of L – glycolic acid can be sensitive to high pH conditions, which can lead to hydrolysis of any esters formed. The PEG chain may also be subject to oxidation over time, especially in the presence of strong oxidizing agents or under high – temperature and high – humidity conditions. In formulations, antioxidants and pH – buffering agents may be added to enhance stability.
Safety Considerations	In the context of biomedical and cosmetic applications, Methoxy – polyethyleneglycol – L – glycolic acid is generally considered safe. The PEG component has a long history of use in pharmaceutical and cosmetic products and is well – tolerated. However, as with any chemical, there is a potential for individual sensitivity or allergic reactions. In industrial settings, proper handling should be ensured to avoid contact with eyes and skin, and appropriate ventilation should be maintained during use, especially when handling large quantities.

Disclaimer: The above content is for reference and communication only among industry insiders, and does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness. According to relevant laws and regulations and the regulations of this website, units or individuals who purchase related items should obtain valid qualifications and qualification conditions.

If you're ready to take the next step, Leave your message below and we’ll reply soon. 20+ years of chemical manufacturing & export experience, a partner you can trust.