Glycosyltransferases[edit]
Glycolipids formation is dependent on the activity of glycosyltransferases. Glycoslytransferases are the enzymes responsible for catalyzing the reaction of the covalent bond formation linking the carbohydrate complex to the lipid molecule. It also functions to form the correct oligosaccharide that will be present in the complete structure to act as the receptor for cell signaling. The glycolipid is assembled in the golgi-apparatus and transported to the membrane via vesicles where the lipid remains embedded in the membrane and the carbohydrate is on the outer surface of the cell.[4]
Glycoside hydrolases[edit]
Glycoside hydrolases catalyze the breakage of glycosidic bonds. They are used to modify the glycan after it has been added onto the lipid to represent the final oligosaccharide structure. It is also involved in the natural degradation of glycolipids into their non-conjugated forms. The lipids and carbohydrates will then assume their common uses as energy in the body.[5]
Defects in Metabolism[edit]
Sphingolipidoses can be associated with defects in metabolism. Shingolipidoses are a category of diseases that can be associated with the accumulation of sphingolipids from failure to degrade compounds correctly. Sphingolipidoses are typically inherited and have varying effects among the various types of diseases. One notable example is Niemann–Pick disease which can cause pain to, damage to neural networks, and, in severe cases, death.[6]