NACET(N-Acetylcysteine ethyl ester) is a novel lipophilic cell-permeable cysteine derivative with an unusual pharmacokinetic feature and remarkable antioxidant potential. NACET has high oral bioavailability. It is a strong antioxidant and rich precursor of GSH, which is related to its free acid N-acetyl -L differs from -cysteine (NAC). NACET is a white powder at room temperature and is freely soluble in water and organic solvents.
NAC is a derivative of cysteine. Since the 1970s, it has been used to treat patients with acetaminophen overdose and neurological disorders, and is marketed as a medicine and nutritional supplement. Compared with NAC, NACET has higher lipophilicity and highly improved pharmacological properties. It has the potential to replace pharmacological NAC, as a mucolytic agent, antioxidant, supplier of GSH, paracetamol antidote, and at least Donor of gaseous transmitter H 2 S and UV protection agent.
In addition, the strong nucleophilicity and reducing potential of NACET has also been proved in human red blood cells. It has been found to accumulate in human red blood cells, effectively resisting oxidative damage caused by hydroperoxides. Therefore, the potential of NACET as an anti-nitrite-induced antioxidant is much greater than that of NAC methemoglobinemia and other strong oxidants. Studies in rats have found that NACET is absorbed much faster than NAC when NACET is administered orally. It is able to enter cells and produce NAC and cysteine, which increases hydrogen sulfide (H (2) S) in the circulation.