beta-Hydroxybutyric acid

beta-Hydroxybutyric acid (also known as beta-hydroxybutyrate, 3-hydroxybutyric acid or 3-hydroxybutyrate) is an organic compound with the formula CH₃CH(OH)CH₂CO₂H. It is a beta hydroxy acid and a keto acid. It is a chiral compound having two enantiomers, D-3-hydroxybutyric acid and L-3-hydroxybutyric acid. Its oxidized and polymeric derivatives occur widely in nature.