Chemical Identity and Structure

N-Palmitoyl-L-Serine sodium salt is a member of the N-acyl amino acid family, a class of endogenous and synthetic bioactive lipids formed by the amide linkage of a fatty acid to an amino acid. In this compound, palmitic acid (hexadecanoic acid, C16:0) is conjugated via an amide bond to the alpha-amino group of L-serine, and the carboxylate is present as the sodium salt.

The sodium salt form confers improved aqueous solubility relative to the free acid, facilitating preparation of aqueous stock solutions for cell-based and biochemical assays. The L-stereochemistry at the serine center is preserved, which is critical for stereospecific biological interactions. The hydroxyl side chain of serine distinguishes this compound from other N-palmitoyl amino acids (e.g., N-palmitoylglycine) and contributes to its unique physicochemical and potential biological profile.

Molecular formula (free acid basis): C₁₉H₃₆NO₄ (sodium salt adds Na, removes H on carboxylate). The compound is a white to off-white solid at room temperature.

Biological Relevance and Research Applications

N-Acyl amino acids, including N-acyl serines, represent an emerging class of bioactive lipid mediators. Endogenous N-acyl amino acids have been detected in mammalian tissues and are implicated in modulating a variety of physiological processes, including thermogenesis, inflammation, nociception, and G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling. N-Palmitoyl-L-Serine sodium salt serves as a structurally defined research tool to probe these pathways in vitro and in cell-based models.

Key research applications include:

• Lipid signaling studies: Investigating the role of N-acyl amino acid lipids in cellular signaling cascades, including interactions with GPCRs and ion channels.
• Enzyme substrate and inhibitor studies: As a substrate or reference compound for enzymes involved in N-acyl amino acid biosynthesis and catabolism (e.g., fatty acid amide hydrolase, FAAH; N-acyl amino acid synthases).
• Membrane biophysics: Studying the impact of lipid-amino acid conjugates on membrane organization and dynamics.
• Structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies: Comparing the biological activity of different N-acyl amino acids by systematically varying the fatty acid chain or amino acid moiety.

Because this compound retains the L-configuration, it is particularly suited for studies requiring stereochemical fidelity relative to endogenous substrates.

Handling, Storage, and Solution Preparation

Storage: Store N-Palmitoyl-L-Serine sodium salt as a dry solid in a tightly sealed container, protected from light and moisture, at the temperature specified on the product label (typically 2–8 °C or −20 °C for long-term storage). Always consult the Certificate of Analysis (CoA) for lot-specific storage conditions.

Solubility: The sodium salt form improves aqueous solubility compared to the free acid. For preparation of aqueous solutions, warming gently and brief sonication may aid dissolution. For organic solvent preparation, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or dimethylformamide (DMF) are commonly used vehicles for lipid-amino acid compounds. Always verify solubility empirically for your specific concentration and buffer system.

Stock solution preparation:

1. Calculate the required mass using the exact molecular weight stated on the CoA.
2. Dissolve in the chosen solvent (aqueous buffer or DMSO) at a concentration appropriate for your assay (e.g., 10–100 mM stock in DMSO).
3. Aliquot to avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
4. Store aliquots at −20 °C under inert atmosphere (argon or nitrogen) if prolonged storage is required.

Safety: Handle as a laboratory chemical; wear appropriate PPE (gloves, lab coat, eye protection). Refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for full hazard information before use.

Quality, Purity, and Ordering Information

Aladdin Scientific supplies N-Palmitoyl-L-Serine sodium salt under SKU N130242. Each lot is accompanied by a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) specifying purity, molecular weight, appearance, and lot-specific analytical data. Researchers are encouraged to review the CoA before use to confirm suitability for their application.

For procurement and pricing, contact Aladdin Scientific directly or place orders through the Aladdin online platform. Bulk quantities and custom packaging may be available upon request. For questions regarding specifications, compatibility, or technical support, Aladdin's scientific support team is available to assist.

When ordering, ensure the correct salt form (sodium salt vs. free acid) is selected, as salt form affects molecular weight calculations and solution preparation. The sodium salt (N130242) is the recommended form for most aqueous biochemical applications.