2-(Hydroxymethyl) aspartic acid: synthesis, crystal structure, and reaction with a transaminase

The synthesis and x-ray crystal structure of 2-(hydroxymethyl) aspartic acid and the preliminary evaluation of its interaction with cytosolic aspartate aminotransferase of pig heart are described. A dissociation constant 1.4 mM for the L-2-(hydroxymethyl) aspartate complex with the enzyme was obtained. 2 figures. (DP)