Gangliosides

Gangliosides are a type of glycosphingolipid that contain sialic acid. They are found predominantly in the cell membrane of neuronal cells, where they participate in various cellular functions such as cell-to-cell communication, cell growth, and cell differentiation.

Structure[edit | edit source]

Gangliosides are composed of a ceramide lipid moiety and a oligosaccharide chain. The ceramide lipid moiety is made up of a sphingosine base and a fatty acid. The oligosaccharide chain contains one or more sialic acid residues, which give gangliosides their negative charge.

Function[edit | edit source]

Gangliosides play a crucial role in the nervous system. They are involved in the modulation of neurotransmitter release, the regulation of receptor function, and the maintenance of membrane stability. They also participate in cell adhesion and signal transduction processes.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Abnormalities in ganglioside metabolism can lead to various neurological disorders, including Tay-Sachs disease, GM1 gangliosidosis, and GM2 gangliosidosis. These disorders are characterized by the accumulation of certain gangliosides in the brain, resulting in progressive neurodegeneration.

See also[edit | edit source]

Gangliosides Resources
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