Design and synthesis of caged ceramide: UV-responsive ceramide releasing system based on UV-induced amide bond cleavage followed by O–N acyl transfer

Sphingolipids, recognized as membrane constructs and as key signaling molecules, have been studied to examine intracellular function. Some caged sphingolipids that release parent sphingolipids after exposure to UV-irradiation have been previously developed, but caged ceramide has yet to be reported. In this study, we report the design and synthesis of a caged ceramide. Photo-irradiation experiment clarified that the caged ceramide can be successfully converted to the parent ceramide by UV-irradiation. Introduction of an alkyne-handle moiety for further modification of the caged ceramide is also reported.