Palmitic acid has been reported to target proteins to cell membranes. It has been found to promote triglyceride accumulation and also affect cell viability. Triglyceride accumulation in goose hepatocytes shows the ability to induce apoptosis. Mechanistic studies show that Palmitic Acid has also demonstrated the ability to induce opening of Ca2+-dependent pores in plasma membranes of red blood cells which will eventually lead to lysis of the cells. Additional studies suggest that saturated fatty acids can induce the expression of Cox-2 and NFB (nuclear factor B) activation. Palmitic acid is used in determination of water hardness.