1-palmitoyl-2-linoleoyl-3-phosphatidylethanolamine

Description

## 1-Palmitoyl-2-linoleoyl-3-phosphatidylethanolamine (16:0/18:2 PE)

**What it is:**

1-Palmitoyl-2-linoleoyl-3-phosphatidylethanolamine (16:0/18:2 PE) is a specific type of **phospholipid**, a major component of cell membranes. It's a **glycerophospholipid**, meaning it's composed of:

* **Glycerol:** A 3-carbon alcohol backbone.
* **Fatty acids:** Two fatty acids are attached to the glycerol molecule. In this case, one is palmitic acid (16:0) and the other is linoleic acid (18:2).
* **Phosphate group:** Attached to the glycerol molecule, which is further linked to **ethanolamine**.

**Why it's important for research:**

16:0/18:2 PE plays crucial roles in various cellular processes, making it a subject of intense research interest. Here are some key reasons:

**1. Membrane structure and fluidity:**
* 16:0/18:2 PE is a significant component of cell membranes, contributing to their structural integrity and fluidity.
* Its unique combination of saturated (palmitic acid) and unsaturated (linoleic acid) fatty acids allows it to modulate membrane fluidity, impacting its permeability and the activity of embedded proteins.

**2. Signaling and cellular function:**
* PE is involved in various cellular signaling pathways, particularly those related to lipid metabolism, cell growth, and apoptosis.
* Specific lipid modifications, including the presence of linoleic acid, can influence its signaling properties, contributing to its diverse functions.

**3. Disease research:**
* Dysregulation of PE levels and its specific molecular species are implicated in various diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and neurological disorders.
* Research on 16:0/18:2 PE and its interactions with other lipids could lead to new diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies for these diseases.

**4. Model system for lipid research:**
* As a well-characterized phospholipid, 16:0/18:2 PE serves as a valuable model system in lipid research.
* Studies using this specific phospholipid help understand the intricate interplay between lipids, proteins, and cell membranes.

**Overall, 16:0/18:2 PE is a fascinating molecule with significant implications for understanding cellular function, membrane biology, and various disease processes. Its research is crucial for unraveling the complexities of lipids and their roles in maintaining cellular homeostasis and influencing human health.**

1-palmitoyl-2-linoleoyl-3-phosphatidylethanolamine: RN given refers to Z,Z-isomer; RN for cpd without isomeric designation not available 12/88 [Medical Subject Headings (MeSH), National Library of Medicine, extracted Dec-2023]