N-Acetyl-D-sphingosine
N-Acetyl-D-sphingosine (CAS 3102-57-6), with the molecular formula C20H39NO3 and a molecular weight of 341.53 g/mol, is a semisynthetic bioactive ceramide. It is recognised for its cell-permeable properties and its role in biological processes such as inducing cellular differentiation and apoptosis. This compound also exhibits effects on vascular function, impairing vasorelaxation in response to acetylcholine. Available as a white powder, it serves as a valuable reagent in biochemical research.
- IUPAC
- (2S,3R,4E)-2-(Acetylamino)-4-octadecene-1,3-diol,N-Acetoyl-D-erythro-sphingosine,Acetyl ceramide,C2 Ceramide (d18:1/2:0),C2 ceramide
- Synonyms
- N-Acetoyl-D-erythro-sphingosineAcetyl ceramideC2 Ceramide (d18:1/2:0)C2 ceramide(2S,3R,4E)-2-(Acetylamino)-4-octadecene-1,3-diol

Cellular Differentiation and Apoptosis Research
N-Acetyl-D-sphingosine is utilised in research settings to investigate its capacity to induce differentiation and apoptosis in various cell types. Its role as a biologically active ceramide makes it a key molecule for studying cell fate determination.
Vascular Function Studies
This compound has been used to study its impact on vascular responses. Research indicates that N-Acetyl-D-sphingosine can cause a concentration-dependent impairment of vasorelaxation, particularly in response to endothelium-dependent agonists like acetylcholine in experimental models.
Biochemical and Lipid Research
As a ceramide derivative, N-Acetyl-D-sphingosine is a valuable tool for researchers studying lipid metabolism, cell signaling pathways involving lipids, and the broader field of metabolomics. Its well-defined structure aids in elucidating complex biological mechanisms.
| Molecular weight | 341.53 |
|---|---|
| Empirical formula | C20H39NO3 |
| Assay | ~98% (TLC) |
| Form | powder |
| Colour | white |
| Solubility | DMSO: solubleethanol: soluble |
| Storage temperature | −20°C |
| Application | N-Acetyl-D-sphingosine is a cell-permeable and biologically active ceramide. N-Acetyl-D-sphingosine induces differentiation and apoptosis in cells. N-Acetyl-D-sphingosine produces concentration-dependent impairment of vasorelaxation in response to the endothelium-dependent agonist acetylcholine in nontransgenic mice. |
| Biological source | semisynthetic |
| Protective equipment | Eyeshields, Gloves, type N95 (US), type P1 (EN143) respirator filter |
|---|---|
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is N-Acetyl-D-sphingosine used for?
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N-Acetyl-D-sphingosine is used in research to study cellular differentiation and apoptosis, and to investigate its effects on vascular function, specifically vasorelaxation. It is also a valuable compound for biochemical and lipid research, including studies in cell signaling and metabolomics.
What is the CAS number and molecular formula for N-Acetyl-D-sphingosine?
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The CAS number for N-Acetyl-D-sphingosine is 3102-57-6, and its molecular formula is C20H39NO3.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies N-Acetyl-D-sphingosine with an assay of approximately 98% as determined by TLC. This product is intended for research purposes and is not supplied as USP, BP, EP, or any other pharmacopoeia grade.
What are the safety precautions for handling N-Acetyl-D-sphingosine?
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When handling N-Acetyl-D-sphingosine, it is essential to use appropriate personal protective equipment, including eyeshields and gloves. A type N95 (US) or type P1 (EN143) respirator filter is also recommended. The compound is classified with WGK Germany 3.
How is N-Acetyl-D-sphingosine shipped and exported?
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Tech Serve Solutions is a specialist global supplier and exporter of fine chemicals. N-Acetyl-D-sphingosine is packed and shipped according to industry standards for chemical export, ensuring product integrity and compliance with international regulations.
How can I request a quote or sample for N-Acetyl-D-sphingosine?
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To request a quote or a sample of N-Acetyl-D-sphingosine, please contact our sales department through the provided channels on the Tech Serve Solutions website. Our team will be pleased to assist you with your inquiry.
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