Product Overview

2-Deoxy-D-ribose (D-2-Deoxyribose, 2-deoxy-D-erythro-pentose, thyminose, 2-deoxy-D-arabinose, CAS 533-67-5, C₅H₁₀O₄, MW 134.13 g/mol) is a five-carbon aldopentose monosaccharide and the defining sugar component of DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid). It is formally derived from D-ribose by the replacement of the hydroxyl group (-OH) at the C2 position with a hydrogen atom (-H) — a single atomic substitution with profound biochemical consequences. In DNA, 2-deoxy-D-ribose units are linked by phosphodiester bonds between the 3′-OH of one sugar and the 5′-OH of the next, forming the alternating sugar-phosphate backbone from which the nucleobases (adenine, thymine, guanine, cytosine) project inward to form Watson-Crick base pairs. The C2 deoxy position is the critical structural feature that distinguishes DNA from RNA: (1) Chemical Stability — the absence of the C2′-OH eliminates the base-catalyzed RNA hydrolysis mechanism in which the 2′-OH attacks the adjacent phosphodiester bond to form a 2′,3′-cyclic phosphate, cleaving the backbone. This makes DNA approximately 100-fold more chemically stable than RNA under physiological conditions, enabling DNA’s role as the long-term repository of genetic information. (2) B-Form Helix Geometry — the C2-deoxy sugar adopts the C2′-endo pucker conformation, producing the characteristic B-form DNA double helix with a wide, solvent-exposed major groove and a narrow minor groove. By contrast, ribose in RNA adopts the C3′-endo pucker, forcing the A-form helix with a deep, narrow major groove. The B-form major groove is the primary recognition surface for DNA-binding proteins, transcription factors, and gene regulatory complexes. (3) Nucleoside Analog Scaffold — the 2-deoxy-D-ribose framework is the synthetic starting point for an entire class of antiviral and anticancer nucleoside analog drugs. The C1 position (anomeric carbon) is glycosidically linked to a modified nucleobase, while strategic modifications at the C2′ and C3′ positions create chain terminators that halt viral or cancerous DNA polymerase activity. This structure-activity paradigm has produced some of the most clinically important antiviral drugs in the pharmacopeia. UPOR Biotech supplies 2-deoxy-D-ribose at ≥99% HPLC purity (Pharma Intermediate Grade) and ≥98% (Research Grade), with comprehensive analytical documentation supporting pharmaceutical synthesis, academic research, and industrial applications.

As a specialized 2-deoxy-D-ribose supplier and manufacturer, UPOR Biotech serves pharmaceutical companies, contract research organizations (CROs), academic laboratories, oligonucleotide therapeutic developers, and cosmetic formulation companies worldwide. 2-Deoxy-D-ribose occupies a unique position at the intersection of pharmaceutical synthesis (nucleoside analog antivirals — AZT, d4T, 3TC, ddI), biotechnology research (DNA/RNA studies, crystallography, NMR spectroscopy, polymerase enzymology), oligonucleotide therapeutics (antisense oligonucleotides, siRNA, aptamers), and emerging cosmetic anti-aging applications (topical ATP stimulation in dermal fibroblasts). The pharma intermediate grade (≥99% HPLC) is manufactured under GMP-compatible quality systems with controlled impurity profiles, low endotoxin levels, comprehensive heavy metals testing (Pb ≤2 ppm, As ≤2 ppm, Cd ≤1 ppm, Hg ≤1 ppm), and full microbial panel analysis — meeting the stringent requirements for drug substance synthesis. Every batch is accompanied by a complete documentation package including COA, MSDS, signed HPLC chromatogram, stability data, and certificate of origin. Bulk quantities (100 g, 500 g, 1 kg) available with competitive pricing. Free samples (1–10 g) available for qualified B2B buyers. OEM synthesis and custom derivatization services available with flexible MOQ and dedicated technical support.

2-Deoxy-D-ribose vs Ribose — The C2 Difference That Defines DNA’s 100× Stability Advantage

The sole structural difference between 2-deoxy-D-ribose (DNA) and D-ribose (RNA) is a single atom at the C2 position: -H in deoxyribose vs -OH in ribose. This 16-dalton difference drives three fundamental consequences for nucleic acid biology. (1) Chemical Stability — 100× Longer Half-Life: Ribose’s C2′-OH acts as an intramolecular nucleophile, attacking the adjacent 3′-phosphodiester bond to form a 2′,3′-cyclic phosphate intermediate, which hydrolyzes to cleave the RNA backbone. This base-catalyzed transesterification occurs spontaneously at physiological pH and temperature, giving RNA a half-life of minutes to hours in solution. 2-Deoxy-D-ribose eliminates this degradation pathway entirely — no 2′-OH means no 2′,3′-cyclic phosphate formation, conferring ~100× greater chemical stability and enabling DNA to preserve genetic information over geological timescales. (2) Helix Geometry — B-Form vs A-Form: The C2 deoxy sugar adopts the C2′-endo pucker, producing B-form DNA with a wide major groove accessible to transcription factors and regulatory proteins. Ribose’s C2′-OH enforces the C3′-endo pucker, producing A-form RNA with a deep, narrow major groove unsuitable for protein recognition. The B-form major groove is the binding site for virtually all sequence-specific DNA-binding proteins — without the C2 deoxy modification, gene regulation as we know it would not exist. (3) Pharmaceutical Relevance: The 2-deoxy-D-ribose scaffold is the synthetic foundation for nucleoside analog antivirals (AZT, d4T, 3TC, ddI) and anticancer agents. Strategic modifications at the 2′ and 3′ positions of this sugar framework create chain terminators that selectively halt viral DNA polymerases — a therapeutic strategy that has saved millions of lives since AZT’s approval in 1987. In summary: a single -OH → -H substitution at C2 is arguably the most consequential atomic change in all of biochemistry — it is why DNA is stable, why genes are regulated through the major groove, and why nucleoside analogs are effective antiviral drugs.

Technical Specifications

PropertySpecification
Product Name2-Deoxy-D-ribose — Pharma Intermediate Grade (≥99% HPLC)
Synonyms2-Deoxy-D-erythro-pentose; Thyminose; 2-Deoxy-D-arabinose; D-2-Deoxyribose; Deoxyribose; 2-Deoxy-D-ribose; 2-deoxy-beta-D-erythro-pentofuranose
CAS Number533-67-5
Molecular FormulaC₅H₁₀O₄
Molecular Weight134.13 g/mol
AppearanceWhite to off-white crystalline powder
Assay (HPLC, Pharma Grade)≥99.0% (HPLC, area normalization)
Assay (HPLC, Research Grade)≥98.0% (HPLC, area normalization)
Melting Point89–91°C (literature: 89–90°C)
Specific Rotation[α]²⁰/D −56° to −58° (c=1, H₂O, equilibrium mixture of α/β anomers)
SolubilityFreely soluble in water (≥50 mg/mL at 25°C); soluble in methanol; slightly soluble in ethanol; practically insoluble in chloroform and diethyl ether
Water Content (Karl Fischer)≤1.0%
Residue on Ignition≤0.1% (sulfated ash)
pH (1% Aqueous Solution)5.0–7.0
Heavy Metals (Total, as Pb)≤10 ppm
Arsenic (As)≤2 ppm
Lead (Pb)≤2 ppm
Cadmium (Cd)≤1 ppm
Mercury (Hg)≤1 ppm
Total Aerobic Microbial Count (TAMC)≤1,000 CFU/g (USP <61>)
Total Yeast & Mold Count (TYMC)≤100 CFU/g (USP <61>)
Escherichia coliAbsent in 1 g (USP <62>)
Salmonella speciesAbsent in 10 g (USP <62>)
Key AdvantageTHE sugar backbone of DNA — C2 deoxy position eliminates RNA-type 2′,3′-cyclic phosphate hydrolysis pathway, conferring ~100× greater chemical stability; enables B-form double helix geometry with wide major groove for protein recognition; essential scaffold for nucleoside analog antiviral drugs (AZT, d4T, 3TC, ddI)
GradePharma Intermediate Grade (≥99% HPLC); Research Grade (≥98% HPLC)
Recommended ApplicationsAntiviral nucleoside analog synthesis (anti-HIV, anti-HBV, anti-HSV); DNA/RNA research and structural biology; oligonucleotide therapeutic development; cosmetic anti-aging formulations; nucleotide synthesis; diagnostic reagent manufacturing
StorageStore at 2–8°C, tightly sealed in original container, protected from moisture and light; avoid prolonged exposure to temperatures above 25°C
Packaging1 g, 5 g, 10 g, 25 g, 100 g, 500 g, 1 kg in sealed aluminum foil bags with PE liner; bulk packaging available upon request; vacuum-sealed option for moisture-sensitive applications
Shelf Life24 months from date of manufacture under recommended storage conditions

Key Benefits — 2-Deoxy-D-ribose

DNA Stability Backbone — 100× Greater Chemical Stability vs RNA

The C2 deoxy position (-H instead of -OH) is the single structural feature that makes DNA chemically stable enough for long-term genetic information storage. By eliminating the C2′-OH, deoxyribose prevents base-catalyzed RNA-type hydrolysis via 2′,3′-cyclic phosphate intermediate formation — a spontaneous degradation pathway that gives RNA a half-life of minutes to hours. DNA’s ~100× greater stability enables genome integrity over geological timescales and is the reason DNA — not RNA — serves as the primary genetic material in all cellular life.

DNA Stability

Nucleoside Analog Synthesis — Core Scaffold for Lifesaving Antiviral Drugs

2-Deoxy-D-ribose is the essential sugar building block for synthesizing FDA-approved nucleoside analog reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs): zidovudine (AZT), stavudine (d4T), lamivudine (3TC), and didanosine (ddI). These drugs target HIV reverse transcriptase, HBV DNA polymerase, and HSV DNA polymerase by acting as chain terminators — the 2-deoxy-D-ribose framework provides the structural mimicry that enables incorporation into viral DNA, while strategic modifications at the 3′ position block further elongation.

Antiviral Synthesis

High-Purity Pharma Intermediate — ≥99% HPLC with Full Analytical Documentation

UPOR Biotech’s pharma intermediate grade 2-deoxy-D-ribose is manufactured under GMP-compatible quality systems with rigorous analytical controls: ≥99.0% purity by HPLC, controlled heavy metals (Pb ≤2 ppm, As ≤2 ppm, Cd ≤1 ppm, Hg ≤1 ppm), low endotoxin levels, and full microbial panel testing per USP. Every batch includes COA, MSDS, signed HPLC chromatogram, stability data, and complete lot traceability — meeting the documentation requirements for pharmaceutical drug substance synthesis.

≥99% HPLC Purity

Cosmetic Anti-Aging Innovation — ATP Stimulation in Dermal Fibroblasts

Emerging research demonstrates that topical 2-deoxy-D-ribose stimulates ATP production in dermal fibroblasts, enhancing cellular energy metabolism to support collagen synthesis, elastin production, and extracellular matrix maintenance. By addressing the fundamental bioenergetic deficit of aging skin, deoxyribose offers a novel anti-aging mechanism distinct from conventional antioxidants. Formulation usage at 0.1–1.0% in serums and creams, with excellent water solubility and compatibility with standard cosmetic bases.

Anti-Aging

Applications

Antiviral Nucleoside Analog Synthesis — Anti-HIV, Anti-HBV, Anti-HSV Drugs

Core sugar scaffold for FDA-approved NRTIs: zidovudine (AZT), stavudine (d4T), lamivudine (3TC), and didanosine (ddI). Used at stoichiometric ratios in Vorbrüggen glycosylation or convergent synthetic routes with protected sugar intermediates (Hoffer chlorosugar). ≥99% HPLC purity ensures pharmaceutical synthesis quality with minimal side-product formation.

DNA/RNA Research & Structural Biology — Crystallography and NMR Studies

Essential reagent for nucleic acid chemistry: DNA polymerase enzymology, B-form DNA crystallography, NMR solution structure determination, and DNA-protein interaction studies. Research grade (≥98% HPLC) suitable for academic and industrial laboratories investigating DNA structure, replication, and repair mechanisms.

Oligonucleotide Therapeutics — siRNA, Antisense, and Aptamer Development

Building block for the synthesis of 2′-deoxynucleoside phosphoramidites used in solid-phase oligonucleotide synthesis. Enables development of antisense oligonucleotides, siRNA duplexes, DNA aptamers, and CpG oligodeoxynucleotides for next-generation nucleic acid-based therapeutics and vaccine adjuvants.

Cosmetic Anti-Aging Formulations — ATP-Stimulating Serums (0.1–1.0%)

Topical 2-deoxy-D-ribose at 0.1–1.0% in anti-aging serums, creams, and sheet masks. Stimulates dermal fibroblast ATP production to enhance collagen synthesis and support skin rejuvenation. Water-soluble, compatible with standard cosmetic bases, stable at formulation pH 5–7. Emerging bioenergetic anti-aging ingredient.

Nucleotide & 2′-Deoxynucleoside Synthesis — Enzymatic and Chemical Routes

Key intermediate for preparing 2′-deoxynucleosides (thymidine, 2′-deoxyadenosine, 2′-deoxycytidine, 2′-deoxyguanosine) and their corresponding 5′-mono-, di-, and triphosphates. Used in both Vorbrüggen glycosylation (chemical) and enzymatic transglycosylation (nucleoside phosphorylase) routes for large-scale nucleotide production.

Diagnostic Reagent Manufacturing — PCR and Molecular Diagnostics

High-purity 2-deoxy-D-ribose for the synthesis of PCR reagents, DNA labeling kits, and molecular diagnostic probes. ≥99% HPLC grade ensures minimal background interference in sensitive fluorescence-based and qPCR assays. Essential for in vitro diagnostic (IVD) reagent manufacturers requiring consistent, documented quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

2-Deoxy-D-ribose (CAS 533-67-5, C₅H₁₀O₄, MW 134.13 g/mol) is the fundamental five-carbon sugar (aldopentose) that forms the sugar-phosphate backbone of DNA. It is a monosaccharide derived from ribose by the replacement of the hydroxyl group (-OH) at the C2 position with a hydrogen atom (-H). This single structural change — the C2 deoxy position — is profoundly consequential for DNA’s chemical stability. In RNA, the ribose C2′-OH group acts as an intramolecular nucleophile, attacking the adjacent phosphodiester bond to form a 2′,3′-cyclic phosphate intermediate — the mechanism of base-catalyzed RNA hydrolysis. This reaction cleaves the RNA backbone and occurs spontaneously under physiological alkaline conditions (pH >7), giving RNA a half-life measured in minutes to hours. By eliminating the C2′-OH, 2-deoxy-D-ribose PREVENTS this hydrolysis pathway entirely, increasing DNA’s chemical stability approximately 100-fold versus RNA. This stability is essential for DNA’s role as the long-term genetic information storage molecule — enabling genome integrity over geological timescales. The C2 deoxy position also determines DNA’s characteristic B-form double helix geometry: the absence of the C2′-OH allows the sugar ring to adopt the C2′-endo puckering conformation, which yields the wider, more open major groove of B-DNA. Ribose in RNA adopts the C3′-endo conformation, forcing the narrower A-form helix. This structural distinction between deoxyribose (DNA) and ribose (RNA) is one of the most fundamental principles in molecular biology. UPOR Biotech supplies 2-deoxy-D-ribose at ≥99% HPLC (Pharma Intermediate Grade) and ≥98% (Research Grade) with full analytical documentation.

2-Deoxy-D-ribose is the core sugar scaffold for synthesizing nucleoside analog antiviral drugs — a cornerstone class of therapeutics targeting HIV, HBV, and HSV. The synthesis pathway involves coupling 2-deoxy-D-ribose (or its protected derivative, e.g., 1-chloro-2-deoxy-3,5-di-O-p-toluoyl-α-D-erythro-pentofuranose, known as the Hoffer chlorosugar) with a modified nucleobase via Vorbrüggen glycosylation or convergent synthetic routes. Key FDA-approved drugs built on the 2-deoxy-D-ribose scaffold include: Zidovudine (AZT) — the first FDA-approved antiretroviral for HIV (1987), a 3′-azido-2′,3′-dideoxythymidine analog that acts as a chain terminator of HIV reverse transcriptase; Stavudine (d4T) — a 2′,3′-didehydro-2′,3′-dideoxythymidine analog for HIV; Lamivudine (3TC) — an L-nucleoside analog for HIV and HBV with the unnatural β-L-configuration at the sugar; and Didanosine (ddI) — a 2′,3′-dideoxyinosine analog for HIV. The 2-deoxy-D-ribose sugar is essential for these drugs because the 3′-OH is required for phosphodiester bond formation during viral DNA polymerization, while strategic modifications at the 2′ and 3′ positions (azido, didehydro, or dideoxy) create chain terminators that halt viral DNA synthesis. UPOR Biotech’s ≥99% HPLC pharma intermediate grade 2-deoxy-D-ribose provides the high purity required for pharmaceutical synthesis, with controlled impurity profiles, low endotoxin levels, and comprehensive analytical documentation supporting drug development and manufacturing workflows. Custom derivatization and protected sugar intermediate synthesis services available upon request.

Emerging dermatological research has identified 2-deoxy-D-ribose as a novel cosmetic anti-aging ingredient with a mechanism distinct from conventional antioxidants and peptides. Topical 2-deoxy-D-ribose has been shown to stimulate ATP (adenosine triphosphate) production in dermal fibroblasts — the primary energy currency of cellular metabolism. As skin ages, fibroblast ATP levels decline, reducing the energy available for collagen synthesis, elastin production, and extracellular matrix maintenance. By providing a metabolic substrate that enhances cellular energy production, 2-deoxy-D-ribose supports the fibroblast’s natural capacity for tissue repair and rejuvenation. Key mechanisms include: (1) ATP Stimulation — deoxyribose enters the pentose phosphate pathway and glycolysis, boosting cellular ATP levels and energizing dermal fibroblasts for increased biosynthetic activity; (2) Collagen Synthesis — energized fibroblasts produce more type I and type III collagen, improving skin firmness and reducing wrinkle depth; (3) Angiogenesis Support — deoxyribose promotes microvascular formation in the dermis, improving nutrient delivery and waste removal in aging skin. Cosmetic formulations typically use 2-deoxy-D-ribose at 0.1–1.0% in anti-aging serums, creams, and masks. The ingredient is water-soluble, compatible with standard cosmetic bases, and stable at formulation pH 5–7. As the cosmetic industry shifts toward bioenergetic and metabolic anti-aging approaches, 2-deoxy-D-ribose represents a scientifically grounded alternative to traditional antioxidants — targeting the fundamental energy deficit of aging skin rather than merely scavenging reactive oxygen species. UPOR Biotech provides cosmetic-grade 2-deoxy-D-ribose with appropriate documentation for personal care product formulation and regulatory compliance.

2-Deoxy-D-ribose and D-ribose are both five-carbon aldopentose sugars with identical stereochemistry at carbons C3 (S configuration) and C4 (R configuration). The sole structural difference is at the C2 position: 2-deoxy-D-ribose has a hydrogen atom (-H) at C2, whereas D-ribose has a hydroxyl group (-OH) at C2. This single atomic substitution (-OH → -H, a difference of 16 atomic mass units) produces three fundamental consequences for nucleic acid chemistry: (1) Chemical Stability — Ribose’s C2′-OH catalyzes RNA backbone hydrolysis via 2′,3′-cyclic phosphate intermediate formation (base-catalyzed transesterification). 2-Deoxy-D-ribose eliminates this hydrolysis pathway, making DNA ~100× more chemically stable than RNA. (2) Sugar Pucker Conformation — Ribose in RNA adopts the C3′-endo sugar pucker (³E), where C3′ is out of the plane on the same side as C5′. 2-Deoxy-D-ribose in DNA adopts the C2′-endo pucker (²E), where C2′ is out of plane. This conformational difference propagates to the overall helix geometry: C3′-endo → A-form helix (RNA, narrow deep major groove, wide shallow minor groove); C2′-endo → B-form helix (DNA, wide major groove, narrow minor groove). The B-form major groove is the primary recognition surface for DNA-binding proteins, transcription factors, and gene regulatory machinery. (3) Biological Function — RNA’s C2′-OH makes it chemically reactive and structurally dynamic, suited for catalytic (ribozyme), regulatory (microRNA, siRNA), and transient information transfer (mRNA) roles. DNA’s C2-deoxy makes it chemically inert and structurally consistent, suited for long-term genetic information storage. These complementary properties arise from the single C2 difference, making 2-deoxy-D-ribose one of the most consequential evolutionary innovations in molecular biology. Understanding this structure-function relationship is essential for nucleoside analog drug design, where modifications at the 2′ and 3′ positions determine therapeutic selectivity and potency.

Every shipment of 2-deoxy-D-ribose from UPOR Biotech includes comprehensive analytical and regulatory documentation: COA (Certificate of Analysis) with HPLC purity assay (≥99.0% or ≥98.0% depending on grade), full impurity profile, specific rotation [α]²⁰/D, melting point, water content by Karl Fischer, residue on ignition, heavy metals panel (Pb ≤2 ppm, As ≤2 ppm, Cd ≤1 ppm, Hg ≤1 ppm, total ≤10 ppm), and microbial limits per USP (TAMC ≤1000 CFU/g, TYMC ≤100 CFU/g, pathogens absent in specified test portions); MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) with handling, storage, and safety information; HPLC Chromatogram signed and dated by QC; Certificate of Origin; GMP Compliance Statement; Stability Data (real-time and accelerated storage conditions); Residual Solvent Declaration per ICH Q3C; and Elemental Impurities Statement per ICH Q3D / USP <232>. Complete lot traceability from raw material to finished product is maintained throughout the manufacturing process. Free sample (1–10 g) available for qualified B2B buyers for evaluation and method development. MOQ: 1 g for research grade; 25 g for pharma intermediate grade. Bulk quantities (100 g, 500 g, 1 kg) available with competitive tiered pricing. OEM and custom synthesis services available with flexible MOQ and dedicated project management — including protected sugar intermediate synthesis (e.g., Hoffer chlorosugar). All documents provided in English. For pharmaceutical development programs, Type II DMF support and technical dossier assistance are available upon request. Contact UPOR Biotech for a detailed quote and documentation package tailored to your specific application requirements. Shipment via FedEx, DHL, or customer-specified courier with temperature-controlled options (cold chain at 2–8°C) for international delivery.