Distearoylglycerol mixed isomers (CAS 1323-83-7)

Distearoylglycerol mixed isomers comprise a chemical structure where two stearic acid molecules are esterified to a glycerol backbone, typically at the 1 and 3 positions, but including a mixture of positional isomers. This lipid composition is particularly significant in the study of lipid behaviors and the physical properties of membranes due to the saturated nature of stearic acid. In research, distearoylglycerol serves as a valuable tool for examining the effects of lipid saturation on bilayer properties such as thickness, rigidity, and transition temperatures. The presence of saturated fatty acids like stearic acid in lipid layers generally increases the melting point, leading to more ordered and less fluid membranes compared to unsaturated counterparts. This characteristic makes distearoylglycerol an ideal molecule for studying lipid packing and the stability of lipid assemblies under various thermal conditions. Researchers also utilize this compound to model the behavior of saturated fats in synthetic bilayers, providing insights into how these lipids influence the mechanical properties of membranes. These studies are crucial for understanding the fundamental interactions within lipid bilayers and how such interactions affect the overall dynamics and functionality of membrane systems in non-biological contexts.