Disclosed are novel branched amphiphilic lipids, in particular novel branched amphiphilic lipids of general formula (II). Also disclosed is a method of synthesis for the compounds of formula (II), from unsaturated amphiphilic compounds of general formula (I). Further disclosed is the use of the compounds of general formula (II) and of the lipoplexes obtained by formulation of the compounds of general formula (II) for applications, particularly transfection, in which improved fusion properties are desired.