Ambrein
Ambrein is a triterpene alcohol that is the chief constituent of ambergris, a secretion from the digestive system of the sperm whale. It has been suggested as the possible active component producing the supposed aphrodisiac effects of ambergris. Although ambrein itself is odorless, it serves as the biological precursor for aromatic derivatives such as ambroxan and is thought to possess fixative properties for other odorants.
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IUPAC name
(1R,2R,4aS,8aS)-1-{(3E)-6-[(1S)-2,2-dimethyl-6-methylidenecyclohexyl]-4-methylhex-3-en-1-yl}-2,5,5,8a-tetramethyldecahydronaphthalen-2-ol | |
Other names
Ambrein | |
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3D model (JSmol) |
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ChEBI | |
ChemSpider | |
ECHA InfoCard | 100.006.784 |
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CompTox Dashboard (EPA) |
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Properties | |
C30H52O | |
Molar mass | 428.745 g·mol−1 |
Except where otherwise noted, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C [77 °F], 100 kPa).
Infobox references |
It has been shown to act as an analgesic and has been proven to increase sexual behavior in rats, providing some support for its traditional aphrodisiac use.
Apart from its supposed aphrodisiac effects, ambrein has been shown to decrease spontaneous contractions of smooth muscles in rats, guinea pigs, and rabbits. It reduces these contractions by serving as an antagonist and interfering with Ca2+ ions from outside the cell.