Functional role of gangliosides in cell membranes: from physiology to pathogenesis

Gangliosides are complex glycosphingolipids that constitute essential components of cell membranes and actively participate in the regulation of numerous biological processes. Although their biochemical properties have been extensively documented; the mechanisms by which they contribute to disease pathogenesis – and the opportunities they offer for therapeutic intervention – remain incompletely understood. This review outlines the biochemical characteristics of gangliosides; the principles of their clustering within membrane microdomains; and the distinctive features of their interactions with proteins and pathogens. Particular attention is given to how perturbations in ganglioside metabolism are linked to major disorders such as Alzheimer’s; Parkinson’s; Huntington’s diseases; and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. In addition; many viruses; including SARS-CoV-2; exploit ganglioside receptors during initial cell attachment. The prospects of employing gangliosides and their derivatives as biomarkers and therapeutic targets are critically analyzed; and contemporary strategies aimed at modulating ganglioside-dependent pathological processes are discussed. Drawing on recent advances in neurobiology; immunology; and infectious disease research; this interdisciplinary review highlights the unique role of gangliosides as universal regulators of cellular responses to diverse stressors. The conclusions presented here may guide future studies of molecular pathogenesis and foster the development of innovative diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for ganglioside-associated diseases. The aim. To synthesize current knowledge on the structure and functions of ganglio- sides; their influence on cellular activity and their involvement in neurodegenerative; infectious and autoimmune disorders.