Functional Role of Glycosphingolipids in Cancer

Glycosphingolipids (GSLs) are ubiquitous components on animal cell membranes, and exposed on the outer surface. Various studies have demonstrated that they play key roles in cell proliferation, adhesion, motility and differentiation. Usually, the specific types of GSLs are expressed more highly in tumors than in normal tissues, which are known as tumorassociated antigens. It has been revealed that most tumor cells show altered GSLs patterns on their surface, abnormal GSLs signaling and biosynthesis, which together play a major role in tumor development. Tumor-associated GSL antigens have been used in the development of antitumor vaccines. There is no doubt that GSLs play a crucial role in tumor progression and would be a promising target for cancer treatment.

Automated summary

Glycosphingolipids (GSLs) are important components on animal cell membranes, with specific types expressed more in tumors than in normal tissues. Abnormal GSLs patterns and signaling in tumor cells play a major role in tumor development, and tumor-associated GSL antigens have been used in antitumor vaccines. It is clear that GSLs play a crucial role in tumor progression and are a promising target for cancer treatment.