DHPC, or 1,2-dihexanoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine, is a distinctive member of the semi-synthetic lipid family, characterized by its specific acyl chain composition and structural properties. Derived from hexanoic acid, DHPC has found significant utility in various biophysical and biochemical studies, offering a tailored approach to investigate membrane-associated processes and interactions.

• Hexanoic Acid Derivation: Synthesized from hexanoic acid, a short-chain fatty acid, DHPC carries unique characteristics associated with its relatively short acyl chains.

• Acyl Chain Length: The acyl chains in DHPC are shorter compared to common phospholipids, influencing the lipid's physical properties, fluidity, and behavior in lipid bilayers.

• Phosphocholine Headgroup: DHPC is characterized by a phosphocholine headgroup, rendering it amphiphilic and capable of forming lipid bilayers.

Applications in Biophysical and Biochemical Studies:

• Detergent Properties: DHPC is widely used as a detergent in membrane protein solubilization due to its mild properties and ability to maintain protein stability during extraction.

• Micellar Systems: Its unique acyl chain length makes DHPC suitable for forming micellar systems, playing a crucial role in creating solubilized environments for studying membrane proteins in solution.

• NMR Studies: DHPC's application extends to nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) studies, particularly in structural investigations of membrane proteins, where its mild detergency and stability prove advantageous.