Where can gangliosides be found?

Prepare for USMLE Step 1 Pathology Exam with comprehensive quizzes, flashcards, and detailed explanations. Enhance your understanding and be exam-ready!

Gangliosides are a type of glycosphingolipid that are primarily found in the cell membranes of neurons, particularly abundant in the myelin sheath surrounding nerve fibers. The myelin sheath is critical for the proper conduction of nerve impulses and has an essential role in the nervous system's structure and function. Gangliosides contribute not only to the structural integrity of the myelin sheath but also participate in cell signaling processes.

While gangliosides can be present in other tissues and can have roles in various physiological processes, their most relevant and significant location within the context of this question is indeed in the myelin sheath. This characteristic is vital for understanding various neurological conditions where the integrity of the myelin is compromised.

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