GSL is a cell membrane component especially abundant in the central nervous system. GSLs form specialized structures that mediate cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions, regulate the behavior of cellular proteins and receptors, and participate in signal transduction. They are via a common backbone [DL-erythro-1,3-dihydroxy-2-aminooctadecane (d18:0)], which can be modified to produce ceramides and more complex GSLs. In GSL, gangliosides are predominantly neuronal components. Galactosylceramides and sulfatides are present in myelin and glial myelinating cells.
Fig.1 ESI-MS/MS of deuteroreduced, permethylated, GSL-derived glycan. (Parry, et al., 2007)
CD Bioglyco provides MS-based GSL Structure Analysis Services, which include a variety of MS analysis methods. MS is widely used for the characterization of GSL. These techniques readily separate the various components of GSLs in the following ways. Firstly, the molecular weights of native species and degradation products are directly measured. Secondly, molecular species are selectively dissociated.ESI is a soft ionization technique that converts ions in solution into gas phase ions for MS analysis. The electrospray process can be simply described as the sample solution being sprayed into mist-like charged droplets under the action of the electric field and auxiliary airflow. Then the volatile solution evaporates gradually at high temperatures and the charge body density on the surface of the droplet increases with the decrease of the radius. At the Rayleigh limit, the Coulomb explosion phenomenon occurs in the droplet, resulting in smaller charged droplets.
Fig.2 Schematic illustration of the various components of the GSL isolated by MS. (CD BioGlyco)
CD Bioglyco provides tandem mass spectrometry combined with ESI techniques for the characterization of molecular species present in GSL, especially ceramide molecules. Both positive and negative modes are used. Samples that can be analyzed include plasma, cells, microorganisms, etc.
At CD BioGlyco, our professional research teams allow us to provide clients with high-quality Carbohydrate Separation, Purification and Analysis. We provide comprehensive GSL structure analysis through ESI-MS. Our broad vision provides customers with professional and high-quality help for GSL structure analysis. If you are interested in our services, please contact us for more details without any hesitation.
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