Thietane

[1][2] Thietane, and its derivative 2-propylthietane, are strong-smelling mouse alarm pheromones and predator scent analogues.

[3][4] Both the mouse and human olfactory receptors MOR244-3 and OR2T11, respectively, were found to respond to thietane in the presence of copper.

[5] Thietane can be produced from the reaction of trimethylene carbonate and potassium thiocyanate, but the yield is low.

[6] An improved synthesis method is the reaction of 1,3-dibromopropane and sodium sulfide.

[7] Nucleophiles like butyllithium can open the ring in thietane.

Structural formula of thietane
Ball-and-stick model of the thietane molecule
NFPA 704 four-colored diamond Health 2: Intense or continued but not chronic exposure could cause temporary incapacitation or possible residual injury. E.g. chloroform Flammability 4: Will rapidly or completely vaporize at normal atmospheric pressure and temperature, or is readily dispersed in air and will burn readily. Flash point below 23 °C (73 °F). E.g. propane Instability 1: Normally stable, but can become unstable at elevated temperatures and pressures. E.g. calcium Special hazards (white): no code