Description
DSPE-PEG-Thiol (DSPE-PEG-SH)
DSPE-PEG-Thiol (DSPE-PEG-SH) is a linear heterobifunctional PEGylation reagent composed of a hydrophobic DSPE phospholipid and a hydrophilic polyethylene glycol (PEG) chain terminated with a thiol (-SH) functional group.
This amphiphilic structure enables self-assembly into liposomes and micelles, making it a versatile building block for lipid-based nanocarrier systems.
The DSPE lipid anchors into lipid bilayers, while the PEG segment provides steric stabilization, improved solubility, and prolonged systemic circulation. The terminal thiol group allows for selective conjugation with thiol-reactive molecules or disulfide exchange chemistry, enabling efficient surface modification of nanocarriers.
Key Applications
- PEGylated liposome and micelle formulation
- Targeted drug and gene delivery systems
- Nanoparticle surface functionalization
- Bioconjugation with maleimide- or disulfide-reactive molecules
- Attachment of targeting ligands (antibodies, peptides, proteins, aptamers)
Functional Advantages
- Amphiphilic structure enables self-assembly in aqueous systems
- Enhances nanoparticle stability and drug solubility
- Extends blood circulation time (“stealth” effect)
- Provides reactive thiol group for covalent conjugation
- Reduces non-specific protein adsorption and cellular uptake
Summary
DSPE-PEG-SH is a multifunctional lipid–PEG conjugate designed for stable PEGylated nanocarriers with reactive thiol groups, enabling advanced surface engineering and targeted drug delivery applications.
