4ME 16:0 Diether DG

1,2-di-O-phytanyl-sn-glycerol

In biochemical signaling, diacylglycerol (DAG) functions as a second messenger signaling lipid, and is a product of the hydrolysis of the phospholipid PIP₂ (phosphatidylinositolbisphosphate) by the enzyme phospholipase C (PLC) (a membrane-bound enzyme) that, through the same reaction, produces inositol trisphosphate (IP₃). Although inositol trisphosphate (IP₃) diffuses into the cytosol, DAG remains within the plasma membrane due to its hydrophobic properties. IP₃ stimulates the release of calcium ions from the smooth endoplasmic reticulum, whereas DAG is a physiological activator of protein kinase C (PKC). The production of DAG in the membrane facilitates translocation of PKC from the cytosol to the plasma membrane. (See References) Diacylglycerol mimicks the effects of the tumor-promoting compounds phorbol esters.

Storage:Diacylglycerols are conveniently stored in chloroform solutions in glass vials with teflon-lined caps at -20°C. Under these conditions acyl migration is minimal. Avoid plastic when handling chloroform solutions.

Delivery to cells:Dry samples of diacylglycerol in chloroform, using a stream of nitrogen. Dissolve the residue in an appropriate volume of ethanol or DMSO, then dilute to the desired aqueous medium.

Effective concentration:Most biological responses saturate at 20 to 250 µM sn-1,2-dioctanoylglycerol. Only sn-1,2 isomers appear to be active.

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• 3D Structure
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