Tetrapyrroles are a class ofchemical compounds that contain fourpyrrole or pyrrole-like rings. The pyrrole/pyrrole derivatives are linked by (=CH− or−CH2− units), in either a linear or a cyclic fashion. Pyrroles are a five-atom ring with four carbon atoms and one nitrogen atom. Tetrapyrroles are common cofactors in biochemistry and their biosynthesis and degradation feature prominently in the chemistry of life.
Some tetrapyrroles form the active core of compounds with crucialbiochemical roles in living systems, such ashemoglobin andchlorophyll. In these two molecules, in particular, the pyrrolemacrocycle ring frames a metal atom, that forms acoordination compound with the pyrroles and plays a central role in the biochemical function of those molecules.
Linear tetrapyrroles (calledbilanes) include:[1]
Cyclic tetrapyrroles having four one-carbon bridges include:[1]
Cyclic tetrapyrroles having three one-carbon bridges and one direct bond between the pyrroles include:
The tetrapyrrole portions of the molecules typically act aschromophores because of a high degree ofconjugation in them. Therefore, these compounds are commonly colored.
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