globosidek

Globosidek, known in English as globosides, are a family of neutral glycosphingolipids found in the plasma membranes of animal cells. They consist of a ceramide lipid linked to an oligosaccharide chain that lacks sialic acid. The sugar chain is usually composed of several hexose residues, including galactose and N-acetylgalactosamine, arranged in distinct globoside series.

Members of the globoside family include globotriaosylceramide (Gb3) and globotetraosylceramide (Gb4), among others. Gb3 is the most studied member and is notable as a receptor for certain bacterial toxins, most famously Shiga toxin.

Biosynthesis occurs in the Golgi apparatus, starting from ceramide. A series of glycosyltransferases adds sugars to form lactosylceramide, after which additional sugars generate the globoside oligosaccharide. This pathway is distinct from the synthesis of gangliosides, which include sialic acid.

Clinical relevance: Gb3 accumulation due to deficiency of alpha-galactosidase A, as seen in Fabry disease, leads to progressive organ damage. Globosides also play roles in membrane microdomain organization and can participate in host–pathogen interactions and cellular recognition.

See also: glycosphingolipids, globoside family, Gb3, Shiga toxin receptor, Fabry disease.