Milk glycosphingolipids (GSLs), components of milk fat globule membranes, participate in diverse biological processes, including pathogen binding and immune responses. The biological roles of GSLs are dependent on their two basic components: the ceramide and oligosaccharide portions. GSLs are often found with high structural heterogeneity arising from the variation in length of the ceramide tails and the saccharide moieties. A combination of factors, including the individual variation of the ceramide, the isomers for the oligosaccharides, and the possible configurations of the ceramide and oligosaccharides, add an additional level of complexity. Here a method for addressing GSL heterogeneity has been developed using microfluidic chip based nanoLC MS. Separation of the GSLs was achieved with high sensitivity and mass accuracy. The use of this technique provides not only the oligosaccharide but also the ceramide structures, which will provide the necessary chemical basis for insights into the physiological roles and effects of GSLs.

Structure and function of milk glycolipids

241st National Meeting (2011)

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