Bioorganic chemistry of ceramide

Ceramide is the hydrophobic membrane anchor of glycosphingolipids, a vital component of the human skin, and a novel signaling substance. We give an overview of ceramide analogues that have been prepared to address biochemical questions related to the various functions of this lipid. We also discuss possible therapeutic applications. (C) Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2003).