Sphingolipids

Other names: Sphingolipids

Harm score: 2 (Derivatives of natural substances)

Sphingolipids, also known as sphingolipids, are a class of lipids found in the cell membranes of eukaryotic organisms. The word "sphingolipids" is derived from the Greek word Sphingos, meaning mystery. These are complex lipids, i.e. they are composed of several different molecules, including sphingosine, fatty acids or phosphate. Sphingolipids are similar to phospholipids in these properties, but unlike them, sphingolipids are made up of ceramides. Sphingolipids and ceramides play a key role in a number of biological processes such as cell growth, differentiation, ageing or stress response.

The use of sphingolipids can be found in some cosmetic and pharmaceutical products, where their ability to interact and control certain biological processes is exploited. For example, some anti-ageing products take advantage of the ability of sphingolipids to regulate cellular ageing processes and thus counteract wrinkles. Other uses of sphingolipids include, for example, the therapy of certain neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease. Scientists are also trying to use sphingolipids in the treatment of certain types of cancer. Sphingolipids are also artificially added to certain foods, such as infant formula products, to help promote the growth and development of the nervous system.