Synthesis of the isomers of the mono- and di-hydroxy-analogues of cystine and comparison with metabolites excreted in the urine

Abstract

DL-, L-, and D-2-Hydroxy-3-mercaptopropanoic acids, prepared from S-benzyl derivatives, were oxidized to the symmetrical disulphides with potassium ferricyanide. Four mixed disulphides with L- and D-cysteine were prepared from L- and D-2-hydroxy-3-mercaptopropanoic acids by reactions with L- and D-cystine S-monoxide. These compounds were compared with those excreted in the urine of a mentally retarded patient.