A new glucosamine-containing amphiphilic spin probe

A new, nonionic amphiphilic spin probe for investigating the extracellular matrix close to the cell membrane by EPR spectroscopy has been synthesized and characterized. A pyrrolidine type nitroxide spin-label has been introduced to the third position of a nonionic sugar polar head (glucosamine) bonded to a lipophilic stearic acid acyl chain anchor. The compound is soluble in polar organic solvents such as ethanol and chloroform, but is sparingly soluble in water.