Betaine

Definition

Betaine is an organic compound with a quaternary ammonium and a carboxylate group that acts as a methyl donor in various biological reactions, including methylation processes. It is not directly involved in the Wittig reaction but is relevant in organic chemistry for its role in transferring methyl groups.

Related terms

Methylation: The process of adding a methyl group to a molecule, essential for modifying genetic expression and cell function.

Quaternary Ammonium Compound: A type of nitrogen-containing compound where the nitrogen atom is bonded to four organic groups, making it positively charged.

Carboxylate Group: The ionized form of carboxylic acid (-COOH), where the hydrogen of the hydroxyl (-OH) group has been lost, giving it a negative charge (-COO^-)