Synthesis of alpha-galactosyl ceramide, a potent immunostimulatory agent

Alpha-galactosyl ceramide has been identified to be a potent stimulatory agent for a novel immunological process, mediated by CD1 molecules. This paper describes a short and efficient synthesis of alpha-galactosyl ceramide. Starting from commercially available 2-deoxy galactose, a suitable sphingosine derivative was obtained in nine steps and 36% overall yield, which was subsequently glycosylated to give the target molecule. This flexible route will provide various glycolipids for further exploration of this interesting biological process.