A database of lipid phase transition temperatures and enthalpy changes.

Area of Science:

• Lipid science
• Physical chemistry
• Biophysics

Background:

• Decades of research on synthetic and biological lipid mesomorphic phase properties have generated vast data.
• Existing lipid phase behavior data are scattered across numerous publications, hindering accessibility.
• Recent compilation into a centralized database addresses this accessibility issue.

Purpose of the Study:

• To create a centralized, accessible database of lipid mesomorphic and polymorphic phase transition data.
• To facilitate review of existing research and identify knowledge gaps in lipid phase behavior.
• To enable a deeper understanding of fundamental physicochemical principles governing lipid phase relations.

Main Methods:

• Compilation of mesomorphic and polymorphic phase transition temperatures and enthalpy changes for lipids.
• Inclusion of data on the effects of hydration, pH, salt/metal ion concentration, and additives.
• Reporting of measurement methods, experimental conditions, and comprehensive bibliographic information.

Main Results:

• A database containing over 9500 records, current through June 1990.
• Each record includes 28 fields detailing lipid phase transition data and influencing factors.
• The database facilitates data analysis, evaluation, and identification of research deficits.

Conclusions:

• The centralized database provides a comprehensive summary of existing lipid phase behavior data.
• Evaluation of the compiled data will reveal fundamental physicochemical principles of lipid phase behavior.
• The resource will enhance understanding of lipid phase relations in biological, reconstituted, and formulated systems.