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Phosphatidylserine (PS) is a biocompatible phospholipid that has a negative charge at biological pH and is a component of the cell membrane. It’s found mainly in animal innards and in plants. Its source determines the fatty acids composition at positions sn-1 and 2. Plant-derived PS is different from animal-derived PS, primarily in the absence of omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids. On a molar basis, PS is a relatively minor constituent of most biological membranes. However, the low abundance of PS is outweighed by its physiological importance given its unique physical and biochemical properties. PS has a structural role in maintaining the integrity of cell membranes and affects multiple neurochemical systems, including dopaminergic and cholinergic systems. In addition, PS is key to the recruitment and activation of many enzymes and structural components, and it marks important events such as the clearance of apoptotic cells and the internalization of viruses by host cells. When the cells undergo apoptosis, a large amount of PS is transferred to the outer cell membrane. The exposed PS acts as a specific recognition signal for the phagocytosis of apoptotic cells by macrophages. Nanomaterials containing PS exhibit immunomodulatory functions in different inflammatory models or deliver agents to specific sites enriched with macrophages.
Phosphatidylserine, an acidic phospholipid molecule, comprises a glycerol backbone and two fatty acid moieties that are esterified to the hydroxyl group of the serine via a phosphate group. Similar to other phospholipids, PS contains two acyl chains at the sn-1 and sn-2 positions of the glycerol moiety, and the polar head group is attached to the position sn-3. Although the acyl chains in the PS vary among cell types and organelles, saturated fatty acids of 16 or more carbons are generally attached to the sn-1 position, while unsaturated fatty acids are typically found at the sn-2 position.
Fig 1 The structure of phosphatidylserine.
Because of their excellent biocompatibility and drug-protective effects, various types of liposomes, including PS, have been used as carriers for drug delivery. The inclusion of PS can result in the preferred recognition of liposomes by macrophages and improve drug encapsulation efficiency. Charged phosphatidylserine-containing liposomes (PSLs) are phagocytosed at higher rates due to specific or electrostatic interactions between cells and vesicles, thereby facilitating macrophage-targeted drug delivery. Therefore, targeting macrophages via phosphatidylserine nanoliposomes has become a promising approach for the delivery of some drugs. However, PSLs can be rapidly eliminated from the blood owing to their affinity for mononuclear phagocytes, and the short half-life of PSLs limits their application as drug delivery systems. To solve the latter problem, Creative Biolabs has developed a technique for modifying the surface of liposomes with polyethylene glycol (PEG). PEGylation disrupts the binding interaction between plasma proteins and liposomes, thereby inhibiting their recognition and elimination of blood by phagocytosis.
With years of experience and pharmaceutical specialized teams, Creative Biolabs is capable of providing our global clients with the best customized formulations and services including but not limited to phosphatidylserine. We have the following advantages:
As a leading source provider in the field of biological research and drug discovery, Creative Biolabs is committed to ensuring that every process is focused on delivering the highest level of service and satisfaction, and we are proud to exceed industry standards with our timely and helpful responses to customer inquiries. If you are interested in our services, please contact us for more details.
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