Aminopropionitrile, also known as β-aminopropionitrile (BAPN), is an organic compound with both amine and nitrile functional groups. It is a colourless liquid. The compound occurs naturally and is of interest in the biomedical community.

Biochemical and medical occurrence

BAPN is the toxic constituent of peas from Lathyrus plants, e.g., lathyrus odoratus. Lathyrism, a disease known for centuries, encompasses 2 distinct entities: a disorder of connective tissue, causing either bone deformity (osteolathyrism) or aortic aneurisms (angiolathyrim). BAPN causes osteolathyrism and angiolathyrism when ingested in large quantities." It can cause osteolathyrism, neurolathyrism, and/or angiolathyrism. It is an antirheumatic agent in veterinary medicine. It has attracted interest as an anticancer agent.

Production

Aminopropionitrile is prepared by the reaction of ammonia with acrylonitrile.