Lipids that are composed of fatty acids, glycerol and carbohydrates (glucose) are called glycolipids. This is known as glycocalyx. Such as Cerebron, Nervon etc. Dr. Siddiq Publications
Different types of glycolipids are-
(i) Cerebroside: A glycolipid composed of glycerol, fatty acids and glucose or galactose is called cerebroside. It resides in the animal brain.
(ii) Sulphatide: A glycolipid composed of glycerol, fatty acid and sulphate is called sulphide. It is present in kidney, liver, salivary gland, testis, chloroplast etc.
(iii) Gangliosides: Glycolipids composed of glycerol, fatty acids and oligosaccharides are called gangliosides. It is in the animal’s brain, nerve cells, spleen and red blood cells.
Functions of glycolipids
(i) Glycolipids are used as markers in cell interactions.
(ii) It plays a role in the immune response of the body by recognizing the virus.
(iii) It forms the membrane of chloroplast.
(iv) Participates in the process of photosynthesis.
(v) Galactose combines with lipids to form galactolipids.
(vi) Glycolipids form human blood group.
(vii) This lipid is found in cotton and sunflower seeds.
(viii) It forms the myelin sheath of neurons.