The biophysical properties of plasmalogens originating from their unique molecular architecture.

Plasmalogens are a unique class of phospholipids that are present in many organisms. Their presence in cell membranes has intrigued researchers for decades due to their unique molecular structure, namely the vinyl-ether bond at the sn-1 position, and their association with brain related disorders. Apparently, based on their amount in the cell membranes, their function is to provide exclusive structural and dynamical properties to these complex molecular assemblies. Yet, many of their physiological roles manifested through their biophysical properties have been challenging to identify. In this review, the biophysical properties of plasmalogens are discussed and compared to other lipid species. The role of plasmalogens is examined in the context of cell membrane function, and some future directions are given.