DSPE-PEG-NHS (Distearoylphosphatidylethanolamine-Polyethylene Glycol-Succinimidyl Ester)is a functionalized amphiphilic phospholipid derivative widely used in nanomedicine carriers, bioimaging, targeted therapy, and other fields.

I. Basic Information

• Chemical Name:Distearoylphosphatidylethanolamine-Polyethylene Glycol-Active Ester

• English Name:DSPE-PEG-NHS

• Solubility:Soluble in organic solvents such as chloroform, methanol, and DMSO; can self-assemble into micelles or liposomes in aqueous phase.

• Storage Conditions:Store dry, protected from light, at –20°C, and avoid moisture.

II. Structural Features

DSPE-PEG-NHS adopts a three-segment design:

• Hydrophobic Tail (DSPE):Composed of two C18 saturated fatty acid chains, which can embed into the hydrophobic core of liposomes or nanoparticles, providing structural stability.

• PEG Chain:The polyethylene glycol chain (typically with molecular weights ranging from 1000–5000 Da) forms a hydrophilic protective layer, reducing immunogenicity and prolonging circulation time in the bloodstream.

• NHS Active Ester Terminal:The N-hydroxysuccinimidyl ester group can covalently conjugate with amino group (–NH₂)-containing molecules (such as antibodies and peptides) under mild alkaline conditions (pH 7–8.5), enabling precise modification with targeting ligands.

III. Application Areas

• Nanomedicine Carriers

  • Used to construct targeted liposomes or lipid nanoparticles, coupling antibodies, aptamers, etc., via the NHS terminus to achieve tumor-targeted delivery.

  • In cancer therapy, it can conjugate chemotherapeutic drugs or immunomodulators to enhance efficacy and reduce side effects.

• Bioimaging and Labeling

  • Conjugated with fluorescent dyes, magnetic particles, etc., for cell tracking or in vivo imaging.

• Gene Therapy

  • Serves as a carrier material to encapsulate nucleic acid drugs (e.g., siRNA, mRNA) and enhance stability through PEGylation.

• Biomaterial Modification

  • Used for surface functionalization of hydrogels, scaffolds, and other materials to improve biocompatibility.

IV. Advantages and Precautions

• Advantages:Combines membrane-anchoring capability, PEG protective effects, and high conjugation activity, making it a key tool for constructing intelligent nanocarriers.

• Precautions:The NHS ester is prone to hydrolysis and should be prepared fresh before use; avoid strong acidic or alkaline conditions during handling.