Description
General description
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.
Diacylglycerol mimicks the effects of the tumor-promoting compounds phorbol esters.
Application
16:0-18:1 DG may be used:
in the lipid vesicle preparation for protein kinase C (PKC) activity studies
in aqueous phospholipid dispersions for differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis
in in vitro diacylglycerol kinase assay
Packaging
5 mL PTFE Vial with Screw Cap (800815O-10mg)
5 mL PTFE Vial with Screw Cap (800815O-200mg)
5 mL PTFE Vial with Screw Cap (800815O-25mg)
Preparation Note
Diacylglycerols are conveniently stored in chloroform solutions in glass vials with PTFE-lined caps at -20°C. Under these conditions acyl migration is minimal. Avoid plastic when handling chloroform solutions.
Other Notes
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.
Precaution: Since short chain Diacylglycerols mimic effects of the tumor-promoting phorbol diesters in a number of biological systems, extra care should be employed in their handling. Treatment of solutions, vessels and other articles with 1N NaOH before washing or discarding will destroy diacylglycerols.
Legal Information
Avanti Research is a trademark of Avanti Polar Lipids, LLC
