Thin-layer chromatography TLC of phospholipids

Methylation of fatty acids Glycerophospholipids can be transesterified directly by basic and acidic procedures without need for saponification of fatty acids. 

O-Acyl lipids are transesterified rapidly in anhydrous methanol in 

Diethyl ether (stored over sodium wire) 

1 M Sodium methoxide in methanol (stable for several months at room temperature) 

To 1-10 mg of glycerophospholipid, add 1 ml diethyl ether, 25 /d of 1 M sodium methoxide and 25 fi of methyl acetate. After 5 min, 6 /d of acetic acid is added, the solution centrifuged at 1500 x g for 2 min and the solvent carefully evaporated under N2. The residue is re-dissolved in cyclohexane before injection. 

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