CPTPmappeina

CPTPmappeina is a synthetic small molecule developed as a biochemical tool to study ceramide-1-phosphate transfer protein (CPTP)–lipid interactions. It functions as a lipid-mimetic ligand designed to bind CPTP with high affinity, enabling controlled modulation of CPTP activity in vitro and in cultured cells. The name combines CPTP with the suffix -mappeina, reflecting its role as a molecular probe.

CPTPmappeina comprises a lipid-like hydrophobic scaffold linked to a polar, charged head group via a short amide linker. The hydrophobic region resembles the ceramide backbone, while the head group confers selectivity for CPTP binding. Physicochemical properties include a logP in the mid-high range, good membrane association, and stability in physiological buffers.

Synthesis and availability: Prepared by a convergent synthesis starting from a sphingoid base and an amide-coupled polar tail. The compound is offered to research institutions under license for lipid signaling studies and is typically used at micromolar concentrations in assays.

Applications: In biochemical assays, CPTPmappeina displaces ceramide-1-phosphate from CPTP, allowing measurement of binding affinity and transport kinetics. It serves as a tool to pharmacologically phenotype CPTP function, map allosteric sites, and investigate the role of CPTP in inflammatory signaling and vesicular trafficking.

Safety and regulation: Not approved for clinical use. Standard small molecule handling applies. Potential irritant; proper PPE; disposal per institutional guidelines. If ingested or inhaled, seek medical advice.