Sphingolipids are a class of lipids derived from the aliphatic amino alcohol sphingosine. Sphingolipids are often found in neural tissue, and play an important role in both signal transmission and cell recognition. Structure The sphingosine backbone is O-linked to a (usually) charged head group such as ethanolamine, serine, or choline. The backbone is also amide-linked to an acyl group, such as a fatty acid. Types There are three main types of sphingolipids: ceramides. Ceramides are the simpl… (More on Sphingolipid)