Sphingolipids

Subgroup of glycolipids that are components of the cell membrane and perform cellular functions. Ceramides and sphingomyelins are counted among the sphingolipids.

• Commonly found in nervous tissue, they play an important role in signal transmission and the interaction of individual cells.
• Are synthesized in the endoplasmic reticulum and the Golgi apparatus.
• Derived from sphingosine.
• Further processing takes place in the plasma membrane and in endosomes.
• Transport is ensured by vesicles.
• High concentration in the mitochondria, the endoplasmic reticulum and in the plasma membrane.
• Sphingolipids play a pathogenetic role in sphingolipidoses.

Hereditary sphingolipidoses (e.g. Gaucher's disease - E75.2 -) are rare lysosomal storage diseases in which the sphingolipids of the cells cannot be broken down due to an enzyme defect. They accumulate in the lysosomes and later also in the cytoplasm of the cell.

Sphingolipids derived from soybean oil or animal sources are used in cosmetic formulations. They act as emollients and skin care products.

1. Delgado A et al (2007) Chemical Tools to Investigate Sphingolipid Metabolism and Functions. ChemMedChem 25: epub