Sphingolipids articles from across Nature Portfolio

Meiosis is a specialized cell division for generating germ cells. The authors show that the lipid composition in the cellular membrane influences meiosis-specific chromosomal dynamics in mouse testis.

IL-10 exerts its anti-inflammatory activity in macrophages by increasing the expression of enzymes that promote fatty acid desaturation and downstream regulation of the transcription factor REL.

Lenardo and colleagues identify a new human genetic disease, GISELL, whereby ceramide lipid homeostasis is disrupted, thereby altering T cell longevity. Deficiency of GTPase of the immunity-associated protein 5 (GIMAP5) in patients leads to cellular senescence, immunodeficiency and early mortality.

Apart from lifestyle, environment and chance events, genetic factors have a key role in delineating the health and longevity of an individual. Research by Park et al. has now shed light on the role of mammalian GIMAP5, a longevity-assurance (LASS) gene encoding a GTP-binding protein that regulates ceramide synthesis and cellular senescence.