GM3
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GM3 (monosialodihexosylganglioside) is a type of ganglioside. The letter G refers to ganglioside, and M is for monosialic acid as it has only one sialic acid group. The numbering is based on its relative mobility in electrophoresis among other monosialic gangliosides.[1] Its structure can be condensed to NANA-Gal-Glc-ceramide. GM3 is the most common membrane-bound glycosphingolipid in tissues, composed of three monosaccharide groups attached to a ceramide backbone.[2] GM3 serves as a precursor for other, more complex gangliosides. Like other gangliosides, GM3 is synthesized in the Golgi apparatus. It is then transported to the plasma membrane, where it functions in cellular signaling.[2] GM3 also functions as an inhibitor; it inhibits cell growth, the function of growth factor receptors, and generation of cytokines by T cells.[3]