Alkali-labile gangliosides.

The structure and properties of a group of gangliosides modified by mild alkaline treatment are discussed. We will present the occurrence and the structure of gangliosides carrying the N-acetyneuraminic acid O-acetylated in position 9, the Neu5,9Ac, and of gangliosides carrying a sialic acid that forms a lactone ring. Starting from biochemical data we will discuss the possible biochemical role played by these gangliosides in the processes of cell signaling and maintenance of brain functions.