18:1 TAP (DOTAP) A80890 (Previously 890890) 1,2-dioleoyl-3-trimethylammonium-propane (chloride salt)

18:1 TAP (DOTAP), or 1,2-dioleoyl-3-trimethylammonium-propane (chloride salt), is a high-purity, synthetic cationic lipid renowned for its efficiency in gene transfection applications. Comprising a 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-propane backbone linked to a trimethylammonium group, DOTAP forms stable cationic liposomes that encapsulate negatively charged molecules such as DNA and RNA. This unique ability facilitates effective intracellular delivery, making it a cornerstone in gene therapy, vaccine development, and lipid-based drug-delivery research.

Beyond its transfection efficiency, DOTAP offers excellent biocompatibility, enabling researchers to design lipid-based carriers that enhance cellular uptake and effectiveness in therapeutics. Its electrostatic interaction with nucleic acid allows for high encapsulation efficiency, which ensures that genetic material reaches target cells with minimal degradation.