2,4-Lutidine Explained

2,4-Lutidine is a heterocyclic organic compound with the formula (CH₃)₂C₅H₃N. It is one of several dimethyl-substituted derivatives of pyridine, all of which are referred to as lutidines. It is a colorless liquid with mildly basic properties and a pungent, noxious odor. The compound has few uses.

It is produced industrially by extraction from coal tars.

Biodegradation

The biodegradation of pyridines proceeds via multiple pathways.^[1] Although pyridine is an excellent source of carbon, nitrogen, and energy for certain microorganisms, methylation significantly retards degradation of the pyridine ring.^{[2] [3]}

Safety

The is 200 mg/kg (oral, rats).

See also

• 2,6-Lutidine
• 3,5-Lutidine

Notes and References

1. Biochemical Interpretation of Quantitative Structure-Activity Relationships (QSAR) for Biodegradation of N-Heterocycles: A Complementary Approach to Predict Biodegradability. Philipp. Bodo. Hoff. Malte. Germa. Florence. Schink. Bernhard. Beimborn. Dieter. Mersch-Sundermann. Volker. Environmental Science & Technology. 2007. 41. 4. 1390–1398. 10.1021/es061505d. 17593747.
2. Sims. G. K.. L.E.. Sommers. 1985. Degradation of pyridine derivatives in soil. Journal of Environmental Quality. 14. 4. 580–584. 10.2134/jeq1985.00472425001400040022x.
3. Sims. G. K.. L. E.. Sommers. 1986. Biodegradation of Pyridine Derivatives in Soil Suspensions. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry . 5. 6. 503–509. 10.1002/etc.5620050601.