Click Chemistry in Lipid Modification

Cu(I)-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) ‘Click Chemistry’ facilitates the formation of stable 1,2,3-triazole linkages, allowing for the conjugation of lipids with various functional groups, probes, and therapeutic agents. This modular and regioselective 1,2,3-triazole forming chemistry has emerged as a powerful tool in lipid chemistry, enabling the precise and efficient modification of lipid linked conjugates. CuAAC tool has high selectivity and mild reaction conditions which make it an ideal tool for modifying complex lipid structures without disrupting their native properties. This chapter highlights the significant applications of click chemistry in lipid science including the synthesis of lipid-based drug delivery systems, functionalization of membrane lipids for imaging and diagnostic purposes, and the development of lipid-derived biomaterials. The chapter emphasizing its role in advancing lipid-based research and technologies in biomedical and material science fields.