L-Cysteine
L-Cysteine (CAS 52-90-4), a proteinogenic amino acid with the linear formula HSCH2CH(NH2)CO2H and a molecular weight of 121.16 g/mol, is a crucial building block in biological systems. It is known for its thiol group, which participates in various biochemical reactions. L-Cysteine is widely utilised in chemical synthesis and as an intermediate in the pharmaceutical industry, finding applications in nutritional supplements and specialised chemical formulations.
- IUPAC
- (R)-2-Amino-3-mercaptopropionic acid
- Synonyms
- (R)-2-Amino-3-mercaptopropionic acidCysteineL-Cystein

Chemical Synthesis
L-Cysteine serves as a versatile chiral building block in organic synthesis, particularly for the creation of complex molecules and pharmaceuticals. Its thiol functionality allows for various derivatizations and reactions.
Pharmaceutical Intermediate
It acts as a key intermediate in the synthesis of various active pharmaceutical ingredients and drug candidates. Its structure is integral to several therapeutic compounds.
Nutritional and Food Additive
While Tech Serve Solutions supplies L-Cysteine for research and industrial applications, it is also recognised for its role in nutritional supplements and as a flavour enhancer or dough conditioner in the food industry.
Biochemical Research
L-Cysteine is essential for researchers studying protein structure, enzyme mechanisms, and cellular metabolism due to its unique thiol group and role in disulfide bond formation.
| Molecular weight | 121.16 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | HSCH2CH(NH2)CO2H |
| Assay | ≥98.0% |
| Optical activity | [α]/D 8 to 9.5° |
| Loss on drying | ≤0.5% loss on drying |
| Impurities tested | ≤0.5% ninhidrin positive substances(each)≤10 ppm heavy metals≤300 ppm ammonium |
| Suitability | clear, colorless for appearance of solution |
| Melting point | 240 °C (dec.)(lit.) |

Hazard statements
- H302Harmful if swallowed
| Protective equipment | dust mask type N95 (US), Eyeshields, Gloves |
|---|---|
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 1 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | Xn |
| Risk statements (R) | 22 |
| Cation traces | Fe: ≤10 ppm |
| Anion traces | chloride (Cl-): ≤0.04%sulfate (SO42-): ≤0.03% |
| Ignition residue | ≤0.1% |
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 L-Cysteine used for?
+
L-Cysteine is primarily used in chemical synthesis, as a pharmaceutical intermediate, in biochemical research, and is also recognised for its role in nutritional supplements and the food industry.
What is the CAS number and chemical formula for L-Cysteine?
+
The CAS number for L-Cysteine is 52-90-4, and its linear formula is HSCH2CH(NH2)CO2H.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply for L-Cysteine?
+
Tech Serve Solutions supplies L-Cysteine with an assay of ≥98.0%. We do not represent this product as USP, BP, or EP grade; it is suitable for technical and research applications.
How should L-Cysteine be handled safely?
+
L-Cysteine is classified as harmful if swallowed (H302). Appropriate personal protective equipment includes a dust mask (type N95 or equivalent), eyeshields, and gloves. Handle in a well-ventilated area.
Is L-Cysteine a controlled substance?
+
The provided data does not indicate that L-Cysteine (CAS 52-90-4) is a controlled substance.
How is L-Cysteine packed and exported by Tech Serve Solutions?
+
Tech Serve Solutions professionally packs and exports chemicals globally, adhering to international shipping regulations to ensure safe and secure transit.
How can I request a quote or sample for L-Cysteine?
+
To request a quote or sample for L-Cysteine, please contact our sales team via the website or provide your details through the product inquiry form.
▶ Related products

1-(2-Fluorobenzyl)piperazine
C11H15FN2
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Fluorophenyl)biguanide hydrochloride
Chemical Synthesis

1-(2-Fluorophenyl)cyclopropanecarboxylic acid
C10H9FO2
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Fluorophenyl)piperazine
C10H13FN2
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Fluorophenyl)piperazine monohydrochloride
C10H13FN2 · HCl
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Furoyl)-1H-benzotriazole
C11H7N3O2
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Furoyl)piperazine
C9H12N2O2
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Hydroxy-5-methylphenyl)-3-phenyl-1,3-propanedione
Chemical Synthesis
▶ 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