1,2-Dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phospho-sn-1-glycerol (sodium salt)

1,2-Dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phospho-sn-1-glycerol (sodium salt) (CAS No.: 200880-41-7) is a negatively charged glycerophospholipid widely employed as a model membrane component in biophysical, biochemical, and drug delivery research. As a synthetic analog of naturally occurring phosphatidylglycerols found in bacterial and mitochondrial membranes, this compound plays a critical role in reconstructing lipid bilayers for the study of membrane organization, protein–lipid interactions, and membrane-associated signaling processes. It is commonly used in the preparation of liposomes, micelles, and other artificial membrane systems, enabling investigation of membrane protein function, drug transport mechanisms, and the physicochemical determinants of membrane stability and permeability. Functionally, it contributes to membrane surface charge and can modulate interactions with peptides, proteins, and small molecules, thereby influencing processes such as adsorption, fusion, and barrier integrity; it has also been reported to limit the penetration of certain hydrophobic compounds into aqueous phases and to enhance resistance of model membranes to environmental stressors such as ultraviolet radiation. While it does not act through a single defined molecular target, its utility lies in modulating membrane properties and serving as a platform for studying membrane-associated pathways and delivery systems. In vitro applications typically involve incorporation into lipid assemblies at defined molar ratios, with experimental concentrations varying depending on the design of liposomal formulations or membrane models, making it a versatile tool in drug discovery, nanomedicine, and membrane biology research.