L-Glutamic Acid CAS 56-86-0

1. L-Glutamic acid is the principal excitatory neurotransmitter in the mammalian central nervous system, acting at both ionotropic and metabotropic glutamate receptors involved in synaptic plasticity, learning, and memory processes .
2. L-Glutamic acid CAS 56-86-0 is widely used as a flavor enhancer in the food industry, where it imparts umami taste; its monosodium salt (MSG) is a common food additive, while the free acid form provides a mild, slightly sweet, meat-like taste with a characteristic yeasty or baked bread aroma .
3. In biopharmaceutical manufacturing, L-glutamic acid serves as a non-essential amino acid component in cell culture media for the commercial production of therapeutic recombinant proteins and monoclonal antibodies, with low-endotoxin grades available for mammalian cell culture applications .
4. L-Glutamic acid CAS 56-86-0 functions as a chiral building block in organic synthesis, used in the preparation of the (S)-isomer of γ-butyrolactone-4-carboxylic acid and various pharmaceutical intermediates .
5. In agricultural applications, L-glutamic acid demonstrates fungicidal properties and plant growth regulation activity, used as a biopesticide for controlling powdery mildew and other fungal infections on fruits, vegetables, nuts, and ornamentals .
6. L-Glutamic acid is utilized in cosmetic formulations for its hair conditioning, antistatic, and humectant properties, helping to improve skin hydration and repair in skincare products .

1. L-Glutamic acid must be stored in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, protected from light and moisture; storage at room temperature in a cool, dark place is recommended, with no special precautions indicated beyond standard good laboratory practices .
2. L-Glutamic acid CAS 56-86-0 is classified with hazard statements R36/37/38 (Irritating to eyes, respiratory system, and skin); caution may cause eye, skin, and respiratory tract irritation . Signal word is "Warning" with hazard symbol Xi (Irritant).
3. Personnel should wear appropriate protective eyeglasses or chemical safety goggles, and gloves when handling this substance; protective garments are not normally required for routine handling, but good laboratory practices are recommended. Use adequate ventilation to minimize dust exposure .
4. Keep L-Glutamic acid CAS 56-86-0 away from incompatible materials such as strong oxidizing agents to prevent decomposition. The compound is stable under normal temperatures and pressures; avoid dust generation and excess heat. Under fire conditions, irritating and highly toxic gases (nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide) may be generated by thermal decomposition .
5. For pharmaceutical and cell culture applications, low-endotoxin grades are available that are tested for cytotoxicity, DNase, NICKase, RNase, and protease activity, suitable for manufacturing use .

1. Isolate the spill area, ensure adequate ventilation, and wear personal protective equipment including safety goggles, gloves, and dust respirator (NIOSH-approved N95 or equivalent) when cleaning up L-glutamic acid .
2. Collect L-Glutamic acid CAS 56-86-0 by vacuuming or sweeping without creating dust, using non-sparking tools, and place into suitable closed containers for disposal. Clean up spills immediately, observing precautions in the protective equipment section .
3. Avoid creating dust clouds during cleanup to prevent eye, skin, and respiratory exposure; prevent the product from entering drains, sewers, or water courses. The compound has a water hazard classification of WGK 1 (slightly hazardous to water) .
4. Dispose of collected material according to local, state, and federal environmental regulations. No special disposal methods are required beyond standard chemical waste disposal procedures, as the compound is not classified as hazardous waste under RCRA .

1. L-Glutamic acid is not classified as highly flammable (NFPA rating: Health: 1, Flammability: 0, Instability: 0), but dusts at sufficient concentrations can form explosive mixtures with air. Under fire conditions, irritating and highly toxic gases may be generated by thermal decomposition, including nitrogen oxides (NOx), carbon monoxide (CO), and carbon dioxide (CO₂) .
2. Use L-Glutamic acid CAS 56-86-0 water spray, dry chemical powder, carbon dioxide, or alcohol-resistant foam to extinguish fires involving the product. Use agent most appropriate to extinguish fire; water spray can be used to cool containers .
3. Firefighters should wear self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) in pressure-demand, MSHA/NIOSH-approved, and full protective gear when handling fires involving this compound due to hazardous decomposition gases generated during thermal decomposition .
4. During combustion, may emit irritant and toxic fumes; contain fire runoff to prevent environmental contamination. The compound has a flash point that is not applicable (non-flammable solid) .