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ceramide oligosaccharide
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ceramide oligosaccharide

biochemistry
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Quick Summary

A ceramide oligosaccharide is a type of glycolipid, which is a molecule composed of a carbohydrate attached to a lipid backbone. Specifically, ceramide oligosaccharides are derived from ceramides, which are made of sphingosine linked to a fatty acid. These molecules are found in cell membranes and play roles in cell-cell recognition and adhesion. They are also involved in mediating cellular processes like differentiation and apoptosis, and act as precursors for more complex sphingolipids. Abnormalities in sphingolipid metabolism, including ceramide oligosaccharides, are linked to diseases like Tay-Sachs and Niemann-Pick disease.123

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3 Britannica Sources
  1. glycolipid
  2. sphingolipid
  3. ceramide

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