1,2-Dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-PE

1,2-Dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-PE (CAS No.: 923-61-5) is a naturally occurring phosphatidylethanolamine belonging to the class of glycerophosphoethanolamines, characterized by two saturated fatty acyl chains esterified to a glycerol backbone, and is a key structural component of biological membranes. Enriched in the inner leaflet of the plasma membrane, this phospholipid contributes to membrane integrity, curvature, and organization, and plays an important role in modulating bilayer biophysical properties. It is known to interact with cholesterol to promote the formation of tightly packed lipid domains through intermolecular hydrogen bonding, thereby influencing membrane fluidity, lateral lipid organization, and processes such as vesicle formation, fusion, and intracellular trafficking. Although not a direct pharmacological target, it is widely used in mechanistic studies of membrane dynamics, lipid–protein interactions, and lipid-mediated signaling pathways, including those associated with membrane remodeling and cellular stress responses. In vitro studies typically employ this compound in model membrane systems, liposomes, or supported bilayers to investigate lipid phase behavior and protein binding, generally at concentrations in the micromolar to millimolar range depending on the system. In biomedical research and drug discovery, it is commonly utilized in cell-based assays and reconstituted systems to evaluate membrane-associated processes, lipid nanoparticle formulations, and the impact of lipid composition on drug delivery, with experimental conditions tailored to specific study objectives.