Definition

A type of fat molecule that is found in the membranes of nerve cells and contains sugars, which are important for cell communication and function.

Example

Gangliosides play a crucial role in the functioning of the nervous system.

Conversation

Have you ever heard about ganglioside and its role in nerve cells?

I think I've come across the term in biology class, but I'm not sure what it does.

It's actually a type of glycolipid that helps with cell communication.

That sounds interesting! I should read more about it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ganglioside → It is formed from "ganglio-" (from Greek "ganglion", meaning a swelling or knot, often referring to a nerve cell cluster) and "-side" (from Latin "situs", meaning a place or position). The word refers to a type of glycosphingolipid found in nerve cell membranes, indicating its association with nerve cell clusters.

Memory Tip

Think of 'ganglion' as a 'knot' of nerve cells, and remember that 'ganglioside' refers to a substance related to these nerve cell clusters.

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