Science
Mechanism of Action
Trimethylamine N-oxide functions primarily as a potent osmolyte, assisting in the protection of cellular proteins against denaturation induced by stressors like high pressure, salinity, and urea. It actively stabilizes the native folded states of proteins and nucleic acids, mitigating destabilizing effects. Furthermore, research suggests TMAO can stabilize collapsed protein conformations by acting as a surfactant on diverse protein surfaces.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Low confidenceN/A
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
No information regarding dusting properties or thresholds was identified in the available research data.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Trimethylamine N-oxide is highly hygroscopic and readily deliquescent, mandating storage in a dry environment under an inert atmosphere to preserve its stability. Its pKa is recorded as 4.65 at 25°C. An aqueous solution of its dihydrate is characterized as strongly alkaline and forms crystalline salts upon interaction with acids. Data on the stability of TMAO solutions stored at -80°C is not available.
Conflicts
- acids (forms crystalline salts)
Safety
Safety Profile
Trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) is listed by the FDA with UNII: FLD0K1SJ1A (dihydrate: C73WZ0186W) and is identified as a 'Substance Added to Food'. The Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has not published an opinion specifically on Trimethylamine N-oxide; opinions found were for a different compound, 'Trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide (TPO)'.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Due to a current absence of specific clinical studies, CIR review, and detailed safety data pertinent to skincare applications, the comprehensive utility of Trimethylamine Oxide remains largely unexplored.
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References
Sources