1,2-Dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-PC

1,2-Dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-PC (CAS No.: 4235-95-4) is a zwitterionic phospholipid widely utilized as a model membrane component in biomedical research and drug delivery studies. Composed of unsaturated oleoyl chains at the sn-1 and sn-2 positions, it closely mimics the fluid characteristics of natural eukaryotic membranes, making it particularly valuable for investigating membrane structure, dynamics, and protein–lipid interactions. This compound is extensively employed in the preparation of liposomes, micelles, and other artificial membrane systems, as well as in the formulation of lipid nanoparticles for the delivery of nucleic acids such as mRNA and microRNA in vitro and in vivo. Functionally, it contributes to membrane fluidity, curvature, and permeability, thereby influencing processes such as membrane fusion, vesicle trafficking, and cellular uptake mechanisms, although it does not directly act on specific molecular targets or signaling pathways. In experimental systems, DOPC-based formulations have been shown to enhance transfection efficiency and biomolecular delivery compared to more rigid phospholipid counterparts, supporting its role in optimizing nanocarrier design. Typical in vitro and in vivo applications involve its incorporation into lipid assemblies at concentrations or compositions tailored to experimental objectives, often spanning low micromolar to millimolar lipid ranges depending on formulation requirements. Overall, 1,2-Dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-PC serves as a fundamental tool in membrane biophysics, lipidomics, and translational research focused on drug delivery and biomimetic system development.