Function
Acrolein is known for its strong and pungent odor. It is a powerful electrophile and a potent irritant to the respiratory system and eyes. It readily reacts with nucleophiles, such as DNA and proteins, leading to oxidative stress and cellular damage.
Applications
Acrolein finds limited direct use due to its toxicity. However, it is used as an intermediate in the production of various chemicals, including acrylic acid, methionine, and glutaraldehyde. It is also employed in research laboratories for its reactivity and its role in understanding oxidative stress-related mechanisms in biological systems.