Hexadecyl Octanoate

Hexadecyl Octanoate is a small molecule, specifically an ester, that has been identified as a fortuitous ligand for EthR, a repressor protein in Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Its binding to EthR induces a conformational change that renders the protein incompatible with its repressor function, leading to the derepression of the ethA gene. This mechanism suggests a therapeutic potential against tuberculosis by increasing the sensitivity of M. tuberculosis to existing antibiotics like ethionamide and other thioamides, thereby potentially allowing for reduced dosages of these toxic compounds. Beyond its biological activity, Hexadecyl Octanoate is also widely used as an emollient in cosmetic and personal care products.

Other names

Octanoic acid, hexadecyl esterhexadecyl caprylateCetyl octanoateCaprylic acid, cetyl esterHexadecyl N-octanoatePalmityl octanoateCetyl caprylate