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Dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine

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Identification
Molecular formula
C40H80NO8P
CAS number
63-89-8
IUPAC name
(2-acetoxy-3-octadecoxy-propyl) 2-(trimethylammonio)ethyl phosphate
State
State

At room temperature, Dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine is a solid. It transitions to a liquid state when heated above its melting point, which is around 41 °C. This property is critical in its function as a component of pulmonary surfactant.

Melting point (Celsius)
41.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
314.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
684.60
Boiling point (Kelvin)
957.75
General information
Molecular weight
734.04g/mol
Molar mass
734.0350g/mol
Density
0.9830g/cm3
Appearence

Dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine appears as a white, waxy solid or powder. It is often used in biochemical research and pharmaceutical formulations, especially in relation to lung surfactants.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of (2-acetoxy-3-octadecoxy-propyl) 2-(trimethylammonio)ethyl phosphate

The solubility of (2-acetoxy-3-octadecoxy-propyl) 2-(trimethylammonio)ethyl phosphate, with the chemical formula C40H80NO8P, is influenced by several factors owing to its complex structure. This compound features both hydrophobic and hydrophilic regions, which play a pivotal role in determining its solubility behavior:

  • Hydrophobic Tail: The long hydrocarbon chain (octadecyl) contributes to low solubility in polar solvents, particularly water.
  • Hydrophilic Head: The presence of the trimethylammonium and phosphate groups enhances its affinity for polar environments, suggesting potential solubility in aqueous media under certain conditions.
  • Dual Nature: The combination of hydrophobic and hydrophilic segments may lead to amphiphilic properties, allowing for micelle formation in solution.
  • Concentration Effects: At higher concentrations, the solubility might increase due to aggregation phenomena, which is typical of surfactants.

In practical terms, the overall solubility of this compound could be described as moderate to low in aqueous solutions, which can be further influenced by factors such as temperature and the presence of salts or additional surfactants. The structure inherently suggests that while it may not fully dissolve in water, it could still interact effectively, especially in formulations designed to optimize its solubilization.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about (2-acetoxy-3-octadecoxy-propyl) 2-(trimethylammonio)ethyl phosphate

(2-acetoxy-3-octadecoxy-propyl) 2-(trimethylammonio)ethyl phosphate, commonly referred to as a type of amphiphilic lipid, possesses unique properties that make it intriguing in the field of biochemistry and materials science. Here are some engaging insights:

  • Amphiphilic Nature: This compound features both hydrophilic (water-attracting) and hydrophobic (water-repelling) parts. This dual behavior allows it to form micelles and lipid bilayers, which are crucial in biological membranes.
  • Applications in Drug Delivery: The unique amphiphilic characteristics facilitate the encapsulation and delivery of pharmaceuticals, enhancing their solubility and effectiveness in biological systems.
  • Surface Activity: As a surface-active agent, this compound can reduce surface tension, making it essential in formulations such as cosmetics and detergents.
  • Research Potential: The presence of the trimethylammonio group suggests potential for use in targeting specific interactions within cells, which is a hot topic in molecular biology research.

Furthermore, as a phospholipid derivative, its significance extends into various domains, from cell biology to nanotechnology. Scientists have found that substances like this can manipulate cell membranes for therapeutic purposes, such as gene delivery or in the development of targeted therapies against diseases.

In summary, (2-acetoxy-3-octadecoxy-propyl) 2-(trimethylammonio)ethyl phosphate is not just a complex name; it represents the convergence of chemistry, biology, and technology with profound implications for both research and practical applications.

Synonyms
85733-91-1
1-0-octadecyl 2-0-acetyl sn-glycero-3-phosphorylcholine
(2-acetyloxy-3-octadecoxypropyl) 2-(trimethylazaniumyl)ethyl phosphate
Platelet Activating Factor C-18
1-Stearyl-2-O-acetyl-3-glyceryl phosphorylcholine
(+-)-1-O-Octadecyl-2-acetylglyceryl-3-phosphorylcholine
3,5,9-Trioxa-4-phosphaheptacosan-1-aminium, 7-(acetyloxy)-4-hydroxy-N,N,N-trimethyl-, hydroxide, inner salt, 4-oxide
CHEMBL12852
DTXSID501110671
PC O-18:0_2:0
DB-055871
3,5,9-Trioxa-4-phosphaheptacosan-1-aminium, 7-(acetyloxy)-4-hydroxy-N,N,N-trimethyl-, inner salt, 4-oxide