1-Deoxynojirimycin (DNJ)

Synonyms: 1-Deoxynojirimycin, DNJ, 1,5-Dideoxy-1,5-imino-D-glucitol, Moranoline, 19130-96-2

1-Deoxynojirimycin (DNJ) is a polyhydroxylated piperidine alkaloid that occurs naturally in certain plants, most notably in mulberry leaves (Morus alba) and in the fermentation products of Bacillus species. Structurally, it resembles D-glucose with the ring oxygen replaced by nitrogen, which allows it to act as a potent competitive inhibitor of various glucosidases. This sugar-mimic property has positioned DNJ as a valuable building block for pharmaceutical research and as an active ingredient in dietary supplements targeting glycemic control.

While DNJ can be obtained through chemical synthesis, commercial quantities are typically produced via microbial fermentation using non-pathogenic Bacillus strains, followed by purification steps including ion exchange and crystallization. This biotechnological route yields high-purity DNJ with consistent stereochemistry, avoiding the complex protecting-group manipulations required in synthetic approaches. The fermentation-derived material is preferred by formulators seeking a natural-sourced ingredient with a clean regulatory profile.

In the supplement and functional food space, DNJ is best known for its role in mulberry leaf extracts standardized for this alkaloid. It is also employed as a reference standard in analytical laboratories and as a research tool to study carbohydrate metabolism and glycoprotein processing. For B2B buyers, DNJ represents a high-value bioactive with applications spanning nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals, and biochemical research.

Chemical Structure & Properties

DNJ is a six-membered piperidine ring bearing four hydroxyl groups and a hydroxymethyl substituent, giving it a close structural resemblance to glucose. The nitrogen atom in the ring is protonated under physiological conditions, which mimics the oxocarbenium ion transition state of glycosidase substrates. This feature underlies its strong binding affinity for glucosidases. DNJ is a white crystalline solid with a melting point around 203-205°C (with decomposition). It is highly soluble in water (up to ~50 mg/mL) and has limited solubility in most organic solvents. The compound is stable under normal storage conditions but should be protected from moisture and excessive heat.

Mechanism of Action

• α-Glucosidase inhibition: DNJ competes with oligosaccharides for the active site of α-glucosidases in the small intestine, slowing the breakdown of complex carbohydrates into glucose and blunting postprandial blood glucose spikes.
• Glycoprotein processing interference: By inhibiting α-glucosidase I and II in the endoplasmic reticulum, DNJ disrupts N-linked glycosylation, affecting viral envelope protein folding and maturation—a mechanism explored for antiviral research.
• Lysosomal enzyme modulation: DNJ can act as a pharmacological chaperone for mutant lysosomal enzymes, potentially correcting trafficking defects in certain lysosomal storage disorders.
• Incretin enhancement: Some evidence suggests DNJ may influence GLP-1 secretion indirectly through delayed carbohydrate absorption, contributing to improved glycemic control.

Quality Specifications

Supply & Documentation

• Capacity: 500 kg per month
• Lead time: 3-5 business days (stock items)
• Documentation: COA, MSDS, TDS available upon request
• Packaging: 25 kg fiber drums with double polyethylene liners; custom packaging available

Request For Quote

• LyvBio Co., Ltd. — Email: info@lyvbio.com