1-[4-[(2-amino-5-thiazolyl)methyl]phenyl]ethanone

The compound you're asking about, 1-[4-[(2-amino-5-thiazolyl)methyl]phenyl]ethanone, is more commonly known as **Thiamine** or **Vitamin B1**.

**Why is Thiamine important for research?**

Thiamine plays a vital role in many crucial metabolic processes within the body. It's a key coenzyme involved in:

* **Carbohydrate metabolism:** Thiamine is essential for the breakdown of carbohydrates, which provides the body with energy. It's a component of two important enzymes:
* **Pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDC):** This enzyme converts pyruvate, a product of glycolysis, into acetyl-CoA, which enters the citric acid cycle for energy production.
* **α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase complex (KGDHC):** This enzyme is involved in the citric acid cycle.
* **Nerve function:** Thiamine is crucial for the transmission of nerve impulses. It's a component of the enzyme transketolase, involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters like acetylcholine.
* **Muscle function:** Thiamine supports the healthy function of muscles.

**Research on Thiamine:**

Because of its vital role in various metabolic pathways, Thiamine is a subject of ongoing research in various fields, including:

* **Neuroscience:** Researchers are investigating the role of thiamine in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease, as well as in conditions like Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, which is caused by thiamine deficiency.
* **Metabolic disorders:** Studies are looking at the relationship between thiamine deficiency and metabolic conditions like diabetes and obesity.
* **Cancer research:** Some studies suggest a potential link between thiamine and cancer prevention or treatment.
* **Nutritional studies:** Researchers are investigating the optimal intake of thiamine for different populations and its impact on overall health.

**Overall:**

Thiamine is a crucial nutrient with broad implications for human health. Research into its functions and potential therapeutic applications continues to shed light on its importance in various physiological processes.