1-Palmitoyl-3-O-benzyl-rac-glycerol (CAS 1487-51-0)

1-Palmitoyl-3-O-benzyl-rac-glycerol (CAS: 1487-51-0) is a synthetic lipid molecule characterized by the esterification of palmitic acid at the first position of a glycerol backbone and a benzyl group attached to the third oxygen atom. This unique structural arrangement, combining a fatty acid with a benzyl group, makes it a particularly useful compound in non-medical research, especially in studies focused on the chemistry and physics of lipids. The presence of the benzyl group adds aromaticity and steric hindrance, which can significantly alter the physical properties of the lipid, such as its melting point, hydrophobicity, and interaction with other molecular entities. These properties make 1-Palmitoyl-3-O-benzyl-rac-glycerol a valuable tool for probing the dynamics of lipid membranes and the role of specific lipid components in stabilizing these structures. Research applications include the use of this compound in the synthesis of more complex glycerides and in the modeling of lipid interactions within artificial membrane systems. By studying how this modified lipid integrates and affects membrane properties, researchers can gain insights into the fundamental aspects of membrane structure and function, such as lipid packing, membrane fluidity, and the impact of lipid composition on membrane permeability and stability. Such studies are crucial for advancing the understanding of membrane-associated processes in various fields including materials science and biochemistry.