1,2-Distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine (DSPE) is a saturated zwitterionic phospholipid derived from phosphatidylethanolamine, widely used in liposomal and nanoparticle-based drug and gene delivery systems. Its long stearic acid chains contribute to membrane rigidity and stability, while its zwitterionic headgroup supports biocompatibility. DSPE is frequently conjugated to polyethylene glycol (PEG) or polycarboxybetaine (PCB) to create stealth liposomes that evade immune detection, reduce opsonization, and significantly prolong circulation time in vivo—making it a key component in the development of advanced therapeutics, such as mRNA vaccines and targeted cancer treatments.
