The molecule is a gamma-lactone that is 5-(hydroxymethyl)furan-2(5H)-one substituted at positions 3 and 4 by hydroxy groups (the 5R-stereoisomer). It has a role as a cofactor, an antioxidant and a fungal metabolite. It is a conjugate acid of a dehydro-D-arabinono-1,4-lactone(1-).
(2R)-3,4-dihydroxy-2-(hydroxymethyl)-2H-furan-5-one