Tributyrin

Description

Tributyrin (C15H26O6), also known as butyrin or glyceryl tributyrate, is the triester of glycerin and butyric acid. It is prepared by esterifcation of glycerin with excess butyric acid. Glycerol tributyrate has a characteristic odor and a bitter taste.
Tributyrin is essentially a triacylglyceride (TAG), which is an ester derived from glycerol and 3 fatty acids. Tributyrin requires lipase to release the butyrate attached to the glycerol. Although 1 tributyrin contains 3 butyrate, not all 3 butyrate is guaranteed to be released. This is because lipase is regioselective. It can hydrolyse triacylglycerides at R1 and R3, only R2, or non-specifically. Lipase also has substrate specificity in that the enzyme can differentiate between acyl chains attached to the glycerol and preferentially cleaving certain types. Since tributyrin requires lipase to release its butyrate, there may be competition between tributyrin and other TAGs for lipase.

The Uses of Tributyrin

Tributyrin is a flavoring agent that is the triester of glycerin and butyric acid. it is prepared by esterification of glycerin with excess butyric acid. it is used in the following foods: baked goods; alcoholic beverages; nonalcoholic beverages; fats and oils; frozen dairy des- serts and mixes; gelatins, puddings and fillings; and soft candy. it is also termed butyrin and glyceryl tributyrate.

What are the applications of Application

Glyceryl tributyrate is also known as tributyrin