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.
