About the structure and biological function of Sqe
Structure. Squalene (Sqe) belongs to the group of isoprenoids within the prenol lipids category. Their structure is based on a linear chain of six five-carbon isoprene units, the building blocks of prenol lipids. Squalene does not encompass further hydrocarbon or oxygen containing substituents.
Function. Squalene serves an important biological function as key precursor to sterol lipids and hopanoids. In most tissues of eukaryotes, squalene is a minor component. Yet Sqe accumulates in sebum, a complex mixture of lipids secreted by the sebaceous glands of mammal skin where it is thought to provide softening effects in the epidermis. Sqe can also break lipid peroxidation by quenching free radicals. Further, squalene is an important component of the vaccine adjuvants AS03 and MF59 which are co-administered with vaccines to stimulate the immune system and increase vaccine efficiency.
