Sphingomyelin
Sphingomyelin
Sphingomyelin (pronunciation: sfing-go-my-a-lin) is a type of lipid found in animal cell membranes, especially in the membranous myelin sheath that surrounds some nerve cell axons. It was discovered by German chemist Johannes Thudichum in the brain in 1884.
Etymology
The term "sphingomyelin" was derived from the Greek word "sphinx," which means an enigmatic or mysterious figure, and "myelin," which refers to the fatty substance surrounding nerve fibers.
Structure and Function
Sphingomyelin is a type of sphingolipid, and it is one of the major lipids in the lipid bilayer. For many years, sphingomyelin was thought of as merely a structural component of membranes, with its role largely confined to maintaining the integrity of the lipid bilayer. However, it is now known that sphingomyelin has various functions in cellular signaling and protein trafficking.
Related Terms
- Lipid: A group of naturally occurring molecules that include fats, waxes, sterols, fat-soluble vitamins, monoglycerides, diglycerides, triglycerides, and phospholipids.
- Sphingolipid: A complex lipid containing a backbone of sphingoid bases, a set of aliphatic amino alcohols that includes sphingosine.
- Myelin Sheath: An insulating layer, or sheath, that forms around nerves, including those in the brain and spinal cord. It is made up of protein and fatty substances.
- Johannes Thudichum: A German-born physician and biochemist who is known for his pioneering research on the brain.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Sphingomyelin
- Wikipedia's article - Sphingomyelin
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