Swainsonine
Swainsonine (CAS: 72741-87-8), with the molecular formula C8H15NO3 and a molecular weight of 173.21 g/mol, is a potent inhibitor of various α-mannosidases, particularly α-mannosidase II. This lyophilized powder, derived from Metarrhizium anisopliae, is known to inhibit glycoprotein processing and functions as an immune modulator. It is supplied by Tech Serve Solutions for research and laboratory applications.
- IUPAC
- (1S,2R,8R,8aR)-1,2,8-Octahydroindolizidinetriol

Enzyme Inhibition
Swainsonine is a well-documented inhibitor of α-mannosidases, with a specific high affinity for α-mannosidase II. This property makes it a valuable tool for studying glycoprotein biosynthesis and cellular trafficking pathways.
Glycoprotein Processing
By inhibiting key enzymes in the mannose processing pathway, swainsonine affects the N-linked glycosylation of proteins. This is crucial for understanding the biological roles of complex glycoproteins.
Immunomodulation Research
Swainsonine exhibits immunomodulatory effects, making it a subject of interest in immunological research. Its capacity to modulate immune responses is explored in various experimental contexts.
| Molecular weight | 173.21 |
|---|---|
| Empirical formula | C8H15NO3 |
| Form | lyophilized powder |
| Storage temperature | −20°C |
| Application | Swainsonine is a potent inhibitor of various α-mannosidases, especially of α-mannosidase II.3 It inhibits glycoprotein processing4 and also acts as immune modulator.3,5 |
| Biological source | from Metarrhizium anisopliae |

Hazard statements
- H302Harmful if swallowed
- H312Harmful in contact with skin
- H332Harmful if inhaled
Precautionary statements
- P280Wear protective gloves, clothing and eye/face protection
| Protective equipment | dust mask type N95 (US), Eyeshields, Gloves |
|---|---|
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | Xn |
| Risk statements (R) | 20/21/22 |
| Safety statements (S) | 36 |
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 Swainsonine used for?
+
Swainsonine is used as a potent inhibitor of α-mannosidases, particularly α-mannosidase II, to study glycoprotein processing and as an immune modulator in research.
What is the CAS number and formula for Swainsonine?
+
The CAS number for Swainsonine is 72741-87-8, and its empirical formula is C8H15NO3.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
+
Tech Serve Solutions supplies Swainsonine as a lyophilized powder. The specific assay and purity are detailed on the product's Certificate of Analysis. This product is intended for research and laboratory use and is not represented as USP, BP, EP, or pharmacopoeia grade.
How should Swainsonine be handled safely?
+
Swainsonine is harmful if swallowed, in contact with skin, or if inhaled (H302-H312-H332). Handle with appropriate personal protective equipment, including a dust mask type N95 (US), eyeshields, and gloves. Ensure adequate ventilation and avoid dust formation.
How is Swainsonine packed and shipped?
+
Swainsonine is supplied as a lyophilized powder and is typically stored at -20°C. It is carefully packed for shipment, adhering to all relevant regulations for the export of chemical reagents.
How can I request a sample or quote for Swainsonine?
+
To request a sample or a quote for Swainsonine, please contact our sales team through the website or by phone, providing your contact details and intended use.
▶ Related products
![(±)-(E)-4-Ethyl-2-[(E)-hydroxyimino]-5-nitro-3-hexenamide (C8H13N3O4) — chemical structure, CAS 138472-01-2; Biochemicals & Reagents, fine chemical supplied by Tech Serve Solutions](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpub-f4d920c906024441a773a96f7098e551.r2.dev%2Fimages%2Fproducts%2F138472-01-2.png&w=3840&q=75)
(±)-(E)-4-Ethyl-2-[(E)-hydroxyimino]-5-nitro-3-hexenamide
C8H13N3O4
Biochemicals & Reagents![(±)-(E)-4-Ethyl-2-[(Z)-hydroxyimino]-5-nitro-3-hexen-1-yl-nicotinamide (C14H18N4O4) — chemical structure, CAS 162626-99-5; Biochemicals & Reagents, fine chemical supplied by Tech Serve Solutions](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpub-f4d920c906024441a773a96f7098e551.r2.dev%2Fimages%2Fproducts%2F162626-99-5.png&w=3840&q=75)
(±)-(E)-4-Ethyl-2-[(Z)-hydroxyimino]-5-nitro-3-hexen-1-yl-nicotinamide
C14H18N4O4
Biochemicals & Reagents
(±)-2,5-Dimethoxy-4-bromoamphetamine hydrobromide
Biochemicals & Reagents

(±)-2-(p-Methoxyphenoxy)propionic acid
C10H12O4
Biochemicals & Reagents
(±)-2-Amino-6,7-dihydroxy-1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene hydrobromide
C10H13NO2·HBr
Biochemicals & Reagents
(±)-2-Hydroxydecanoic acid
C10H20O3
Biochemicals & Reagents
(±)-3-Hydroxydecanoic acid
C10H20O3
Biochemicals & Reagents
(±)-3-Hydroxyoctanoic acid
C8H16O3
Biochemicals & Reagents▶ 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