Synthesis of Lipid and Cholesterol Hydroperoxide Standards

Phospholipids and cholesterol are the lipid component of cellular and subcellular membranes and are transported primarily (>65%) in low-density lipoproteins (1 ). The fatty acids of these compounds are easily attacked by reactive oxygen species leading to the formation of their respective peroxides (2 –4 ). Cholesterol can be oxidized directly with hydroperoxide formation at the 5, 7, and 25 positions (5 ). The ratio of oxidized phospholipid to cholesterol markedly increases membrane fluidity and deformability characteristics (6 ).