Syllabus
Structure and nomenclature of glycophingolipids (GSLs). Biosynthesis of GSLs de novo and recycling of degradation fragments for biosynthesis.
Degradation of GSLs and inborn errors of their metabolism. GSLs conformation, formation of micellar structure and localisation of GSLs in plasma membrane and formation of aggregates. Role of GSL in animal cell membrane.
GSLs as cell surface antigens and receptors. GSLs, blood group antigens.
GSLs and cell differentiation. Aberrant glycosylation of GLS in cancers.
GSL-tumor associated antigens. A role of GSLs intercellular interaction and adhesion. GSLs and signal transduction.
Function of GSLs in brain. Gangliosides and modulation of the function of neural cells.
Methods of GSLs isolation and analysis.
Annotation
The lecture "Glycosphingolipids" is designed for students of natural sciences interested in study of cell surface molecules playing an important role in cell-cell contact, cell-signalling or as cell surface antigens and receptors. To successfully pass this course basic knowledge of biochemistry is required. Lecture is provided by J.Ledvinová, F. Šmíd and Befekadu Asfaw.
Lectures - in Czech -