This book presents the latest knowledge and the most recent research results on glycosphingolipid (GSL)-mediated signaling. GSLs are important constituents of the plasma membrane that exert their distinct functions through binding to certain functional proteins. They play a role in various human diseases and also function as human alloantigens. Cellular GSLs are associated with many biological functions such as cellular oncotransformation, phenotype change, neuronal or embryonic development, regulation of cell division, cell–cell interaction, cell attachment, adhesion, and motility, and intracellular signaling via protein–carbohydrate or carbohydrate–carbohydrate interactions. This book opens by providing the key background on GSL glycan–receptor interactions and mammalian GSL synthesis. Up-to-date information is then presented on all aspects of GSL-dependent signaling. Viral protein and bacterial toxin protein interactions with host cell GSLs are examined in depth, and the concluding chapter is devoted to signaling regulation. The book should assist in the further development of new strategies against emerging infectious agents and intractable diseases.

Sugar chains (glycans) are often attached to proteins and lipids and have multiple roles in the organization and function of all organisms. "Essentials of Glycobiology" describes their biogenesis and function and offers a useful gateway to the understanding of glycans.

This book attempts to analyze the latest discoveries in sphingolipid biology and how the alteration of their metabolism leads to altered signaling events and to the development of pathobiological disorders, such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, asthma, diabetes, inflammation and infectious diseases.

Sphingolipids are found in all eukaryotic and in some prokaryotic organisms and provide structure for cell membranes, lipoproteins, and other biological materials as well as participate in the regulation of cell growth, differentiation, and diverse cell functions, including cell-cell communication, cell-substratum interactions, and intracellular signal transduction. This volume presents methods used in studying enzymes of sphingolipid biosynthesis and turnover, including inhibitors of some of these enzymes, genetic approaches, and organic and enzymatic syntheses of sphingolipids and analogs. Its companion Volume 312 will contain information on analyzing sphingolipids, sphingolipid transport and trafficking, and sphingolipid-protein interactions and cellular targets. The critically acclaimed laboratory standard for more than forty years, Methods in Enzymology is one of the most highly respected publications in the field of biochemistry. Since 1955, each volume has been eagerly awaited, frequently consulted, and praised by researchers and reviewers alike. Now with more than 300 volumes (all of them still in print), the series contains much material still relevant today--truly an essential publication for researchers in all fields of life sciences.

This book reviews recent progress in understanding of the signaling and biochemistry of GM3 ganglioside in eukaryotic cells. GM3 is the simplest of the gangliosides and the precursor of other gangliosides. It is expressed in the outer leaflet of plasma cell membranes and has roles in the recognition, interaction, binding, adhesion, and motility of cells. In addition, GM3 has been documented to have functional roles in cell migration, proliferation, senescence, and apoptosis. The full range of topics of interest are addressed in the book. The early chapters discuss the synthesis of GM3, its molecular localization in cells, and its basic function as an interacting molecule. The ways in which GM3 exerts its effects via various growth factor receptors are fully explored. Current knowledge of the part played by GM3 in health and disease is discussed in depth. For example, its roles in preventing inflammation, inhibiting tumor angiogenesis and tumor growth, and suppressing arthritis are highlighted, and attention drawn to the significance of GM3 as a driver of impaired wound healing in diabetics. The book will be of interest to all who want a comprehensive update on research in this field.

Imaging mass spectrometry (MS) techniques are often utilized without an understanding of their underlying principles, making it difficult for scientists to determine when and how they can exploit MS to visualize their biomolecules of interest. Introduction to Spatial Mapping of Biomolecules by Imaging Mass Spectrometry is an essential reference to help scientists determine the status and strategies of biomolecule analysis, describing its many applications for diverse classes of biomolecules. The book builds a foundation of imaging MS knowledge by introducing ionization sources, sample preparation, visualization guidelines, molecule identification, quantification, data analysis, etc. The second section contains chapters focused on case studies on analyzing a biomolecule class of molecules. Case studies include an introduction/background, and a summary of successful imaging MS studies with illustrative figures and future directions. - Provides the introductory foundations of imaging mass spectrometry for those new to the technique - Organized by topic to facilitate a quick deep dive, allowing researchers to immediately apply the imaging MS techniques to their work - Includes case studies summarizing the imaging MS techniques developed for the class of molecules

This book presents in an easy-to-read format a summary of the important central aspects of microbial glycobiology, i.e. the study of carbohydrates as related to the biology of microorganisms. Microbial glycobiology represents a multidisciplinary and emerging area with implications for a range of basic and applied research fields, as well as having industrial, medical and biotechnological implications. - Individual chapters provided by leading international scientists in the field yield insightful, concise and stimulating reviews - Provides researchers with an overview and synthesis of the latest research - Each chapter begins with a brief 200 word Summary/Abstract detailing the topic and focus of the chapter, as well as the concepts to be addressed - Allows researchers to see at a glance what each chapter will cover - Each chapter includes a Research Focus Box - Identifies important problems that still need to be solved and areas that require further investigation

Carbohydrate Analysis by Modern Liquid Phase Separation Techniques, Second Edition, presents readers with the various principles of modern liquid phase separation techniques and their contributions to the analysis of complex carbohydrates and glycoconjugates. In a selection of all-new chapters, this fully updated volume covers each technique in detail. The book aims to help analysts solve any of the many practical problems they may face in tackling the analysis of carbohydrates. In addition, it addresses current difficulties that must be resolved in carbohydrate research, thus inspiring further important technological developments to meet these challenges. This is an essential resource for anyone seeking a broad view of the science of carbohydrates and separation techniques. - Covers the basic principles of modern liquid phase separation techniques, along with their applications - Compiles up-to-date information on the field of carbohydrate analysis, along with updates on separation science - Focuses on problems currently faced in carbohydrate analysis and the solutions necessary for further progress