Reagents and instruments for immunology, cell biology and molecular biology.
 
Glycerophospholipids

Glycerophospholipids

Glycerophospholipids represent the predominant subclass of phospholipids, defined by a glycerol-3-phosphate backbone esterified at the sn-1 and sn-2 positions with fatty acids, and at sn-3 with a polar headgroup via a phosphodiester linkage. This structural organization enables their fundamental role as primary architects of biological membranes. Comprising approximately 70–90% of eukaryotic membrane lipids, glycerophospholipids display stereospecific numbering (sn-configuration) and a wide diversity of acyl chain compositions that finely regulate membrane fluidity, curvature, and function.

Structural Classification

Glycerophospholipids are derived from phosphatidic acid (PA: sn-1/sn-2 diacyl-sn-glycerol-3-phosphate), which is subsequently modified through the attachment of distinct polar headgroups. Major subclasses include phosphatidylcholine (PC, choline), phosphatidylethanolamine (PE, ethanolamine), phosphatidylserine (PS, serine), phosphatidylinositol (PI, inositol), phosphatidylglycerol (PG), and cardiolipin (CL, diphosphatidylglycerol). Typically, the sn-1 position contains saturated fatty acids (16:0 or 18:0), whereas the sn-2 position is enriched in polyunsaturated chains (18:2, 20:4, 22:6). Additional structural variants include plasmalogens (sn-1 vinyl ether linkage) and lysophospholipids, which contain only a single acyl chain.

Biophysical Characteristics

As amphipathic molecules, glycerophospholipids exhibit shapes ranging from conical (e.g., PE, favoring hexagonal HII phases) to cylindrical (e.g., PC, promoting bilayer formation). They spontaneously self-assemble into lipid bilayers approximately 4–5 nm thick, with membrane phase behavior strongly influenced by acyl chain unsaturation and cholesterol content. While PC is zwitterionic with an overall neutral charge, PS and PI are anionic phospholipids contributing to membrane surface charge and signaling functions. These lipids undergo characteristic phase transitions from gel (Lβ′) to ripple (Pβ′) and ultimately to the fluid liquid-crystalline state (Lα).

 


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Where can I find glycerophospholipids products on the Biovalley website?

glycerophospholipids products are available in this section and can be sorted by product families or sub-categories, such as Phosphatidylethanolamine, Phosphatidic acid, Phosphatidylinositol. You can browse the catalogue tree or use the search bar with a product name, catalogue reference, brand or supplier.

What types of products are available in the glycerophospholipids category?

The glycerophospholipids category brings together various product references, consumables, reagents, kits, instruments or laboratory solutions, depending on the relevant product family. The Phosphatidylethanolamine, Phosphatidylserine, Phosphatidylinositol sub-categories allow you to find the products that meet your needs more quickly.

How can I quickly find a glycerophospholipids product?

To find a glycerophospholipids product, use the search function by name, product code, supplier, brand or sub-category. You can also browse the product families listed on the page to identify an available product code, an alternative or an equivalent product.

Does Biovalley stock several product codes in the glycerophospholipids category?

Yes, Biovalley distributes several product references in the glycerophospholipids category, sourced from specialist suppliers. Depending on the product family, references may vary in terms of format, packaging, brand, supplier, technical specifications or availability.

Can I request a quote for glycerophospholipids products?

Yes, you can request a quote for glycerophospholipids products from the product page or by contacting Biovalley (info@biovalley.fr). To help us process your enquiry, please provide, where possible, the product name, catalogue reference, required quantity, the supplier or brand you are looking for, and the country of delivery.

How can I find out if a glycerophospholipids product is available to order?

The availability of a glycerophospholipids product depends on the product code, supplier, packaging and country of delivery. For up-to-date information, please check the product details page or contact Biovalley with the product code or name of the product you are looking for.

What should I do if I cannot find the glycerophospholipids product I am looking for?

If the glycerophospholipids product you are looking for does not appear in the catalogue, please contact Biovalley with the available information: product name, reference number, supplier, brand, format or packaging. The team will be able to search for the reference number within its network of suppliers or suggest an available alternative.

Are all glycerophospholipids products available under the same terms and conditions?

No. Ordering, delivery, storage and documentation conditions may vary depending on the product type, the supplier and the applicable regulations. Certain product codes may require specific approval, specialised transport, a safety data sheet or additional information prior to ordering.