A simple technique for the analysis of positional distribution of fatty acids on di- and triacylglycerols using lipase and phospholipase A2.

Abstract

A simple technique is described for the analysis of positional distribution of fatty acids on di- and triacylglycerols using lipase and phospholipase A2 that de-esterify fatty acids from specific sn positions. The technique makes use of the fact that methanolic-NaOH methylates only fatty acids esterified to glycerol, while methanolic-HCl methylates both free and esterified fatty acids. After lipase action it is possible to determine the fatty acid released by lipase activity by comparing the fatty acid contents of the two methylation reactions. A computer program has been written to calculate enzyme activity and positional distribution from the results. The new technique is easier to use as it eliminates thin-layer chromatography used in the standard technique and can be performed on smaller samples using less lipase.