Thin-layer chromatography of ceramides.

Ceramides with mono-, di-, and trihydroxy long-chain bases, and normal (saturated and unsaturated), branched-chain, and 2-hydroxy fatty acids have been analyzed by thin-layer chromatography. In most cases the compounds were also run as acetates. Borate, arsenite, and silver ions were used as complexing agents, and the effects of number, position, and stereochemistry of hydroxy groups, and of unsaturation, were studied. The results are discussed in view of analysis of natural ceramide species.