Description

• Biochem/physiol Actions: Suggested to be a modulator of cell growth and signal transduction. Accumulates in the nervous system of patients with GM1 gangliosidosis. Used for the preparation of GM1 derivatives containing different fatty acids, fluorescent tags, or other residues.
• Other Notes: Gangliosides are major constituents of neuronal cell membranes and endoplasmic reticulum; contain a sialated polysaccharide chain linked to ceramide through a β-glycosidic linkage; for classification of gangliosides see Svennerholm, L., et al. (eds.), Structure and Function of Gangliosides, New York, Plenum, 1980.