Phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate
Phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), CAS 16561-29-8, with the molecular formula C36H56O8 and a molecular weight of 616.83 g/mol, is a potent phorbol ester. It is a strong activator of Protein Kinase C (PKC) and is widely utilised in biological research for its ability to mimic the effects of diacylglycerol (DAG). Its applications span cancer research, cell biology, and studies of cell signaling and neuroscience.
- IUPAC
- 12-O-Tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate,4β,9α,12β,13α,20-Pentahydroxytiglia-1,6-dien-3-one 12-tetradecanoate 13-acetate,PMA,TPA
- Synonyms
- 12-O-Tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate4β,9α,12β,13α,20-Pentahydroxytiglia-1,6-dien-3-one 12-tetradecanoate 13-acetatePMATPA

Cancer Research
PMA is extensively used as a research tool in oncology to study tumour promotion and progression mechanisms. It helps researchers understand the role of PKC in cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis.
Cell Biology and Signaling
This compound serves as a key activator of Protein Kinase C (PKC) in cell-based assays. It is instrumental in investigating intracellular signaling pathways, cell differentiation, and immune responses.
Neuroscience Research
PMA is employed to explore the involvement of PKC in neuronal function, synaptic plasticity, and neurological disease models. It aids in understanding neuroinflammation and neuronal survival pathways.
Biochemical Assays
As a potent PKC activator, PMA is valuable in biochemical studies to characterise kinase activity and screen for modulators of the PKC pathway. Its known effects facilitate the validation of assay systems.
| Molecular weight | 616.83 |
|---|---|
| Empirical formula | C36H56O8 |
| Assay | ≥99% (TLC) |
| Form | film or powder |
| Solubility | DMSO: soluble (Dissolve in water-miscible organic solvent prior to preparing aqueous solutions. DMSO solutions can be stored dark at -20 °C for at least six months.)ethanol: soluble (Dissolve in water-miscible organic solvent prior to preparing aqueous solutions.) |
| Storage temperature | −20°C |

Hazard statements
- H315Causes skin irritation
| Protective equipment | dust mask type N95 (US), Eyeshields, Gloves |
|---|---|
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | Xi |
| Risk statements (R) | 38 |
| Safety statements (S) | 36/37 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
| Storage Condition | protect from light |
|---|
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 Phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate used for?
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Phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) is primarily used in research as a potent activator of Protein Kinase C (PKC), making it valuable for studying cell signaling pathways, cancer research, cell biology, and neuroscience.
What is the CAS number and formula for Phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate?
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The CAS number for Phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate is 16561-29-8, and its empirical formula is C36H56O8.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies Phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate with an assay of ≥99% (TLC). TSS does not represent this product as USP, BP, EP, or other pharmacopoeia grades unless explicitly stated.
How should Phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate be handled and stored?
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Phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate is classified as a Warning with hazard statement H315 (Causes skin irritation). Recommended personal protective equipment includes a dust mask type N95 (US), eyeshields, and gloves. It should be stored at -20°C and protected from light.
How is Phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate packed, shipped, and exported?
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Tech Serve Solutions packs and ships Phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate according to relevant regulations for research chemicals. As a global supplier, TSS has extensive experience in exporting fine chemicals worldwide.
How can I request a quote or sample for Phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate?
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To request a quote or sample for Phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate, please contact our sales team via the website or direct email, providing your specific requirements.
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