| abstract |
Compounds of the formula ##STR1## including the resolved enantiomers and/or diastereomers and mixtures thereof wherein each of one or two R is independently ##STR2## wherein n is 1-16 and R' is H or alkyl(1-4C); and wherein each remaining R is independently H, alkyl(1-6C), alkenyl(1-6C) or benzyl; an wherein said alkyl or alkenyl may be substituted by a hydroxyl, halo, or dimethylamino group, and/or interrupted by an oxygen atom, are useful in modulating the effects of internal and external stimuli on cells by reversing the effects of these stimuli on the short-term secondary messenger pathways. In particular, the compounds lower elevated levels of unsaturated, non-arachidonate phosphatidic acid (PA) and diacylglycerol (DAG) derived from said PA within seconds of the primary stimulus and their contact with said cells. The modulatory effect depends on the nature of the target cell and the stimulus applied. |