Characterization of Glycosphingolipids in the Human Parathyroid and Thyroid Glands

As part of a systematic investigation the glycosphingolipids in human tissues, acid and non-acid from thyroid parathyroid glands were isolated characterized with mass spectrometry binding carbohydrate-recognizing ligands, focus on complex compounds. The glycosphingolipid patterns very similar. major sulfatide gangliosides GM3, GD3, GD1a, GD1b, GT1b Neu5Ac-neolactotetraosylceramide, globotriaosylceramide globoside. We also found neolactotetra- neolactohexaosylceramide, x2 glycosphingolipid, terminal blood group O A determinants both tissues. Leb determinant was identified gland, sample had B determinant. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated expression antigens glands. weak cytoplasmatic GD1a ganglioside present thyroid, while gland strong cell surface. Thus, glycosylation is more than previously appreciated. Our findings provide platform for further studies alterations surface cancers.