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AAT Bioquest

What are the differences between glycine and glycerin?

Posted January 27, 2023


Answer

Glycine and glycerin are two substances with simple chemical structures. Here’s a look at the differences between these two substances. 

Glycine

Glycine is the simplest naturally occurring amino acid. It is an organic compound and is a constituent of most proteins. Glycine is obtained from the hydrolysis of proteins. 

Glycine contains amine and carboxylic groups in its structure. It has two carbon atoms. 

Glycine is a common amino acid in collagen. 

Glycerin

Glycerin is a colorless, odorless, viscous liquid that is formed as a by-product in soap manufacture. It is obtained from plant and animal sources.  

Glycerin contains three hydroxyl groups in its structure. It has three carbon atoms.

Glycerin is important in the wound and burn treatments.

Additional resources

Efficacy of electrocautery in different media: air, perfluorodecalin, glycerine, glycine, and electrolyte solution

5-ROX glycine *Fluorescence reference standard for PCR reactions*

Glycine (0.1 M, pH 2.2) Preparation and Recipe