Identification of Sphingomyelin Molecular Species by LC-MS/MS

Sphingomyelin, a type of sphingolipid, exists in numerous molecular species with different long-chain acyl structures. Dr. Oda and colleagues at Tokushima Bunri University used LC-MS/MS to analyze the molecular species of sphingomyelin in sheep erythrocytes to investigate the relationship between cell membrane disruption by Clostridium perfringens α-toxin, a major pathogenic factor in gas gangrene, and phospholipid metabolism. Their results revealed that the toxin specifically enhances the metabolism of phospholipids containing unsaturated fatty acids, leading to the breakdown of erythrocyte membrane homeostasis. The study also suggested that an increase in phospholipids with unsaturated bonds could be an indicator of cell membrane instability and aging.

The Cadenza CD-C18 column, known for its excellent recognition of isomers and structurally related compounds, is effectively utilized in the LC-MS/MS analysis of sphingomyelin molecular species.

• Imtakt Technical Information TI512E

Reference:
The relationship between the metabolism of sphingomyelin species and the hemolysis of sheep erythrocytes induced by Clostridium perfringens alpha-toxin.
Oda M, Matsuno T, Shiihara R, Ochi S, Yamauchi R, Saito Y, Imagawa H, Nagahama M, Nishizawa M, Sakurai J.
J Lipid Res. 2008 May;49(5): 1039-47