Lactosylceramide (CD17) (LacCer)

Lactosylceramide (LacCer), designated as CD17, is a bioactive glycosphingolipid that serves as a critical cell-surface receptor and signaling mediator, particularly within the plasma membrane's lipid rafts [1][2]. It is highly expressed on the surface of mature myeloid cells, such as neutrophils and monocytes, where it facilitates essential innate immune functions including phagocytosis, chemotaxis, and the activation of the NADPH oxidase complex to generate reactive oxygen species [2][3]. LacCer functions by associating with Src family kinases, notably Lyn, to initiate intracellular signaling cascades that regulate cell proliferation, adhesion, and inflammatory responses [4]. In pathological contexts, elevated LacCer levels are linked to the progression of atherosclerosis by promoting arterial stiffness and smooth muscle cell proliferation, as well as to neuroinflammatory diseases like multiple sclerosis, where it drives astrocyte activation [5][6]. Consequently, LacCer and its biosynthetic enzymes, such as B4GALT6, are emerging as therapeutic targets; pharmacological strategies include using small molecule inhibitors to reduce LacCer accumulation or utilizing antibodies to block its receptor-like interactions in inflammatory and oncogenic environments [4][7].

Other names

CD17Gal-beta-1,4-Glc-beta-1-CerLactosylceramideGalactosylglucosylceramideLacCer receptor

Inhibition of lactosylceramide biosynthesis via glucosylceramide synthase or lactosylceramide synthase inhibition; direct antibody-mediated neutralization of cell surface lactosylceramide signaling.