This phosphatidic acid is a well-defined phospholipid acylated with C16:0 fatty acids at the sn-1 and sn-2 positions. Phosphatidic acid is an important acidic lipid that is only found in relatively small amounts in comparison to other lipids. It acts as the precursor to a number of phospholipids and triacylglycerols, is integral in forming the shape of cellular membranes,1 has functions in cellular signaling,2 and has a role in vesicle fission and fusion. Phosphatidic acid is generally synthesized by the acylation of glycerophosphate but can also be synthesized by the phosphorylation of 1,2-diacyl-snglycerol or the hydrolysis of phosphatidylcholine. Phosphatidic acid can be converted to diacylglycerols which are important cellular signaling agents.3 The metabolism of phosphatidic acid has been shown to change due to external stimuli in the pathogen Trypanosoma cruzi and this could be used to develop a treatment for diseases caused by this microorganism.4 Dipalmitoyl phosphatidic acid has been found to be useful in the formation of lipid vesicles which are used to carry drugs to targeted cells.5
