Identification of some lipid peroxides by thin-layer chromatography.

Solvent systems are described which permit class separations of various peroxidized lipids by thin-layer chromatography. This procedure has proved useful in biological studies and for testing the deterioration of lipids. Proof is given that the least polar peroxides of methyl esters, glycerides, and fatty acids are monoperoxides; it is then assumed that the least polar peroxides in the other tested groups (cholesterol, cholesterol esters, and phospholipids) are also monoperoxides. The more polar peroxides probably represent highly peroxidized and polymeric forms.