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Biosynthesis of phytosphingosine by the rat
The Journal of Biological Chemistry
|August 25, 1977
Summary
Labeled C18-phytosphingosine was identified in rat intestines after injection of a labeled precursor. Intestinal flora is unlikely to be the sole source for its biosynthesis.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Lipid Metabolism
- Sphingolipid Biology
Background:
- Sphingolipids are crucial components of cell membranes.
- Phytosphingosine is a key sphingoid base found in various organisms.
- Understanding phytosphingosine biosynthesis is vital for lipid metabolism research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the biosynthesis and distribution of C18-phytosphingosine in rats.
- To determine the role of intestinal flora in C18-phytosphingosine production.
Main Methods:
- Injection of radiolabeled D-erythro[4,5-3H]C18-dihydrosphingosine into rats.
- Analysis of lipid fractions using gas-liquid chromatography (GLC) and thin-layer chromatography (TLC).
- Identification via co-migration, mass spectrometry (MS), and radiodetection after chemical modifications.
Main Results:
- Labeled C18-phytosphingosine was detected in rat intestinal fractions (glycolipid-rich, ceramide-rich, sphingomyelin-rich).
- Smaller amounts were found in liver and kidney tissues.
- Experiments with germ-free rats indicated intestinal flora is not the sole site of biosynthesis.
Conclusions:
- C18-phytosphingosine is synthesized in rat intestines and distributed to other organs.
- The intestinal microflora does not solely account for C18-phytosphingosine biosynthesis.