Sphingolipid and Ceramide Homeostasis: Potential Therapeutic Targets

Sphingolipids are ubiquitous in eukaryotic cells where they have been attributed a plethora of functions from the formation of structural domains to polarized cellular trafficking and signal transduction. Recent research has identified and characterised many of the key enzymes involved in sphingolip...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Simon A. Young, John G. Mina, Paul W. Denny, Terry K. Smith
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Wiley 2012-01-01
Series:Biochemistry Research International
Online Access:http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2012/248135
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Summary:Sphingolipids are ubiquitous in eukaryotic cells where they have been attributed a plethora of functions from the formation of structural domains to polarized cellular trafficking and signal transduction. Recent research has identified and characterised many of the key enzymes involved in sphingolipid metabolism and this has led to a heightened interest in the possibility of targeting these processes for therapies against cancers, Alzheimer's disease, and numerous important human pathogens. In this paper we outline the major pathways in eukaryotic sphingolipid metabolism and discuss these in relation to disease and therapy for both chronic and infectious conditions.
ISSN:2090-2247
2090-2255