Complex lipids, synthesis glycosphingolipids

Cerebrosides are major constituents of the membrane of brain cells. They are the simplest glycosphingolipids, serving as model substances for more complex lipids of this kind. Furthermore, they are credited with important properties as receptors for hormones and toxins.29 Schemes 4 13 and 4 14 provide a method for preparing sphingosine and its analogs that can be used for the synthesis of cerebroside compounds. 

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