Monosialotetrahexosylganglioside sodium is a neurotrophic nutrient whose abbreviation is GM1.
Gangliosides belong to the class of ganglio series, which comprise of a glycosphingolipid with sialic acid residue on the sugar chain. The sialated polysaccharide chain connects with ceramide via a β-glycosidic linkage. They are not only constituted within the neuronal plasmic membrane but also in the endoplasmic reticulum.
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Although they make up for 0.1% of the total weight of the brain, gangliosides account for almost 10% of the overall lipids. They induce cell differentiation, apoptosis, neuroprotection, and the release of neurotrophins.
Monosialotetrahexosylganglioside is a disproportionate compound consisting of an oligosaccharide chain and ceramide. The molecule exhibits both hydrophilic and lipophilic properties. Being soluble in water and fats, Monosialotetrahexosylganglioside can easily navigate through the blood-brain barrier.
Monosialotetrahexosylganglioside sodium GM1 plays a significant physiological role in the brain. It exhibits neuroprotective properties such as repairing neurological damages, functional recovery, and regeneration of neurons after injury. For this reason, Monosialotetrahexosylganglioside sodium is useful in the treatment of central nervous injury. Some of the related ailments include cerebrospinal trauma, cerebrovascular damage, and traumatic nerve cell injury. More of it is concentrated where there is nerve cell damage.