Cantharidin
Cantharidin (CAS: 56-25-7), a potent terpenoid with the chemical formula C10H12O4, is a well-known compound with significant biological activity. Possessing a molecular weight of 196.20 g/mol, it has been historically used in traditional medicine and is currently investigated for various pharmacological applications. Its properties make it a subject of interest in cell biology and biochemical research.
- IUPAC
- 3a,7a-Dimethylhexahydro-4,7-epoxyisobenzofuran-1,3-dione,7a-Dimethylhexahydro-3a,4,7-epoxyisobenzofuran,Cantharidine,Hexahydro-3a,7a-dimethyl-4,7-epoxyisobenzofuran-1,3-dione
- Synonyms
- 3a,7a-Dimethylhexahydro-4,7-epoxyisobenzofuran-1,3-dione7a-Dimethylhexahydro-3a,4,7-epoxyisobenzofuranCantharidineHexahydro-3a,7a-dimethyl-4,7-epoxyisobenzofuran-1,3-dione

Biochemical Research Tool
Cantharidin serves as a valuable tool in biochemical research, particularly for studying protein phosphatases. It is widely used to investigate cellular signaling pathways and the mechanisms of cell proliferation and apoptosis.
Investigational Pharmacology
Its biological effects are explored in various pharmacological contexts. Research delves into its potential applications, though it is not approved for human therapeutic use by major regulatory bodies.
Phytochemical Studies
As a significant phytochemical found in certain beetle species and plants, Cantharidin is a key compound in studies of natural products and traditional herbal medicine, including Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
| Molecular weight | 196.20 |
|---|---|
| Empirical formula | C10H12O4 |
| Colour | white |
| Solubility | DMSO: solubleethanol: soluble |
| Melting point | 215-217 °C(lit.) |

Hazard statements
- H300Fatal if swallowed
- H315Causes skin irritation
- H319Causes serious eye irritation
- H335May cause respiratory irritation
Precautionary statements
- P261Avoid breathing dust, fume, gas or vapours
- P264Wash thoroughly after handling
- P301IF SWALLOWED
- P305IF IN EYES
| Protective equipment | Eyeshields, Faceshields, full-face particle respirator type N100 (US), Gloves, respirator cartridge type N100 (US), type P1 (EN143) respirator filter, type P3 (EN 143) respirator cartridges |
|---|---|
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 2811 6.1 / PGI |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | T+ |
| Risk statements (R) | 28-36/37/38 |
| Safety statements (S) | 53-45 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is Cantharidin used for?
+
Cantharidin is primarily used as a research tool in biochemistry and cell biology to study protein phosphatases and cellular signaling. It is also a subject of investigational pharmacology and phytochemical studies.
What is the CAS number and chemical formula for Cantharidin?
+
The CAS number for Cantharidin is 56-25-7, and its chemical formula is C10H12O4.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
+
Tech Serve Solutions supplies Cantharidin for research purposes. The specific grade and purity are available upon request. We do not represent this product as USP, BP, EP, or any other pharmacopoeia grade unless explicitly stated.
What are the primary safety concerns when handling Cantharidin?
+
Cantharidin is highly toxic and an irritant. It is classified with GHS06 symbol, "Danger" signal word, and hazards including H300 (Fatal if swallowed), H315 (Causes skin irritation), H319 (Causes serious eye irritation), and H335 (May cause respiratory irritation). Strict adherence to safety protocols, including the use of appropriate personal protective equipment like gloves, eye protection, and respiratory protection, is mandatory.
How is Cantharidin packed and shipped?
+
Cantharidin is packed and shipped according to international regulations for hazardous materials, bearing the UN 2811 designation for toxic solids. TSS exports globally.
How can I request a sample or quote for Cantharidin?
+
To request a sample or quote for Cantharidin, please contact our sales department via the website or direct email, providing your specific requirements.
▶ Related products

(−)-Curcumol
C15H24O2
Cell Biology
(±) Clopidogrel hydrogensulfate
Cell Biology

(±)-L-Alliin
C6H11NO3S
Cell Biology
(±)-2-Amino-4-phosphonobutyric acid
C4H10NO5P
Cell Biology
(±)-2-Methylarachidonoyl-2′-fluoroethylamide
C23H38NOF
Cell Biology
(±)-3,4-Methylenedioxy-N-ethylamphetamine hydrochloride
Cell Biology

(±)-3,4-Methylenedioxyamphetamine hydrochloride
Cell Biology

(±)-3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine hydrochloride
Cell Biology
▶ Explore more

3-Methyl-1,5-di-p-tolyl-1,4-pentazadiene
Chemical Synthesis

3-Methyl-1,5-pentanediol
Chemical Synthesis

3-Methyl-1-(2-methylphenyl)-1H-pyrazol-5-amine
C11H13N3
Chemical Synthesis
3-Methyl-1-(3′-sulfoamidophenyl)-5-pyrazolone
C10H11N3O3S
Chemical Synthesis