Asparagusic acid

- Asparagusic acid (1,2-dithiolane-4-carboxylic acid) is unique to asparagus.
- The physicochemical properties of the 1,2-dithiolane ring structure are detailed.
- Two adjacent sulphur atoms within the ring lead to an enhanced chemical reactivity.
- The compound is responsible for the odorous urine excreted after eating asparagus.