C8 Ceramine, D-erythro (CAS 170926-06-4)

C8 Ceramide, identified with the D-erythro configuration, is a synthesized sphingolipid analog characterized by a shorter acyl chain length compared to its more common counterparts. This structural uniqueness renders C8 Ceramide a valuable tool in research focused on cellular lipid metabolism and the specific roles of ceramides in cell signaling pathways. The molecule has been extensively utilized in studies investigating the fundamental mechanisms of ceramide action, particularly their role in modulating the physical properties of cell membranes and influencing intracellular signaling cascades. C8 Ceramide′s shorter fatty acid chain affects its biophysical properties, such as solubility and membrane incorporation, which in turn influences cellular processes like apoptosis, proliferation, and stress response. Researchers exploit these properties to dissect the complex balance between ceramide levels within cells and the corresponding effects on cellular behavior. Additionally, studies involving C8 Ceramide have contributed to our understanding of lipid rafts—cholesterol and sphingolipid-enriched microdomains critical for protein sorting and signaling. By altering the lipid composition through the integration of C8 Ceramide, researchers can observe changes in raft dynamics and functionality, thus gaining deeper insights into cellular communication and lipid-driven regulatory mechanisms. This research has profound implications for understanding the biochemical pathways that control cell fate and adaptability in response to external stimuli.