🍽️ N-acetylneuraminic acid {Sialic acid}

Immune Function: Sialic acid is involved in the structure of glycoproteins and glycolipids present on the surface of cells, including immune cells. These molecules play a role in immune cell signaling, recognition of pathogens, and modulation of immune responses. Sialic acid-containing compounds may help support immune function and contribute to the body's defense against infections and diseases.

Brain Development: Sialic acid is a component of gangliosides, which are complex molecules found in high concentrations in the brain and nervous system. Gangliosides play crucial roles in neuronal development, synaptic function, and signal transmission. Sialic acid-containing gangliosides are particularly important during early brain development and may contribute to cognitive function and neurological health.

Inflammation and Autoimmune Disorders: Sialic acid-containing molecules, such as sialylated glycoproteins, have been implicated in the regulation of inflammation and immune responses. Alterations in sialylation patterns have been observed in various inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and inflammatory bowel disease. Modulating sialic acid levels or sialylation processes may have therapeutic potential in managing these conditions.

Cancer: Abnormal sialylation patterns have been associated with cancer development and progression. Changes in sialic acid expression on cell surfaces and altered sialylation of glycoproteins are characteristic features of cancer cells. Sialic acid-containing molecules may contribute to tumor growth, metastasis, and evasion of immune surveillance. Targeting sialic acid pathways or inhibiting aberrant sialylation processes may be a potential strategy for cancer therapy.

Neurodegenerative Diseases: Sialic acid-containing molecules, particularly gangliosides, are abundant in neuronal membranes and play essential roles in neuronal structure and function. Alterations in ganglioside metabolism and sialic acid content have been implicated in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and Huntington's disease. Modulating sialic acid levels or enhancing ganglioside synthesis may offer therapeutic benefits in these conditions.

Viral Infections: Sialic acid serves as a receptor for various viruses, including influenza viruses, noroviruses, and coronaviruses. These viruses exploit sialic acid-containing molecules on host cells to facilitate viral attachment and entry into cells. Modulating sialic acid expression or blocking viral interactions with sialic acid receptors may have implications for preventing or treating viral infections.