SPHINGOSINE ANALOGUES

The present invention aims to provide a novel sphingosine analogue, which is useful as an intermediate for syntheses of novel lipid derivatives such as sphingolipid derivatives and the like that can regulate the effects of sphingolipid. The present invention relates to a sphingosine analogue represented by the general formula (I) described below. In the formula, as for Q , Q and Q , Q and Q , which are the same or different each other, are hydrogen, alkyl groups having 1-4 of carbon atoms, acyl groups having 2-5 of carbon atoms, or protecting groups of the amino group, and Q is a hydrogen or a protecting group of the hydroxyl group; or Q and Q make up an isopropylidene group and Q is a hydrogen or a protecting group of the amino group. Q and Q , which are the same or different each other, are hydroxyl groups, acyl groups having 2-5 of carbon atoms, -O-Q , or hydrogen; or Q and Q make up a covalent bond. Q is a protecting group of the hydroxyl group. X is -COOH, -CONH2, -CO-Q , -CH2OH, or -CH2O-Q . Q is a protecting group of the carboxyl group, and Q is a protecting group of the hydroxyl group.