dimethylthiourea

Dimethylthiourea (DMTU) is an organic compound with the chemical formula C₃H₈N₂S, characterized by a thiourea structure with two methyl groups attached to the nitrogen atoms. It appears as a white crystalline solid or crystalline powder that is soluble in water and organic solvents. The compound functions primarily as a **potent hydroxyl radical (•OH) scavenger** and **antioxidant agent**[1][3][5]. DMTU has been isolated from Allium sativum (garlic) and blocks hydroxyl radical production by activated neutrophils in vitro[3][5]. The compound exhibits anti-inflammatory properties and has been studied for its protective effects against oxidative stress-induced damage, particularly in gastric mucosal lesions caused by water-immersion restraint stress (WIRS) in rats[3][5]. In industrial applications, it serves as an antioxidant in diazo copy paper to prevent yellow discoloration[2]. DMTU also acts as a good hydrogen bond donor and acceptor, making it useful in various chemical reactions as a reducing agent, and has applications in analytical chemistry as a ligand in coordination chemistry[4][6]. The compound has demonstrated potential biological activities including antifungal and antimicrobial properties[4]. Research has shown that DMTU can attenuate the inactivation of methionine synthase produced by nitrous oxide exposure[1].

Other names

N,N'-Dimethylthiourea1,3-Dimethyl-2-thiourea1,3-Dimethylisothiourea1,3-DimethylthioureaDimethylthiocarbamidesym-DimethylthioureaNSC 8727NSC8727NSC-8727