Description
Lignoceric acid is a 24-
carbon saturated (24:0) fatty acid. In mammals, it is synthesized during brain development and is found in cerebrosides. The deficient peroxisomal oxidation of very-
long-
chain fatty acids, including lignoceric acid, contributes to certain syndromes, including Zellweger cerebro-
hepato-
renal syndrome and X chromosome-
linked adrenoleukodystrophy. Lignoceric acid is also a by-
product of lignin production.
Purification Methods
Crystallise the acid from acetic acid, Me2CO, toluene, pet ether/Me2CO or*C6H6/Me2CO. [Beilstein 2 IV 1301.]
