Alkyl-lysophospholipids

Chemical structure of edelfosine, an alkyl-lysophospholipid being studied for its potential use as a pharmaceutical drug

Alky-lysophospholipids (ALPs) are synthetic analogs of lysophosphatidylcholines (LPCs), also called lysolecithins. They are synthesized by replacing the acyl-group within the LPC with an alkyl group.[1] In contrast to LPCs, ALPs are metabolically very stable.[1][2]

ALPs are being studied for their potential antineoplastic (anti-cancer)[1] and immune-modulating effects.[2] Their anti-tumor effects are due to modulation of intracellular signalling pathways, inducing apoptosis.[3] It is highly selective, sparing healthy cells.[2] Several examples including edelfosine, miltefosine, and perifosine are under development as drugs against cancer and other diseases.

## References

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1. ^ a b c Munder, PG; Modolell M; Adreesen R; Weltzien HU; Westphal O (1979). "Lysophosphatidylcholine (Lysolecithin) and its Synthetic Analogues. Immunemodulating and Other Biologic Effects". Springer Seminars in Immunopathology. 203 (2): 187–203\. doi:10.1007/BF01891668. S2CID 42907729.
2. ^ a b c Houlihan, W; Lohmeyer M; Workman P; Cheon SH (1995). "Phospholipid antitumor agents". Medicinal Research Reviews. 15 (3): 157–223\. doi:10.1002/med.2610150302. PMID 7658750. S2CID 6997551.
3. ^ van Blitterswijk, W; Verheij M (2008). "Anticancer alkylphospholipids: mechanisms of action, cellular sensitivity and resistance, and clinical prospects". Current Pharmaceutical Design. 14 (21): 2061–74\. doi:10.2174/138161208785294636. PMID 18691116.