About the structure and biological function of AdS
Structure. Alpha-hydroxy-fatty acid [A] dihydro-sphingosine [dS] ceramides (CER[AdS], or AdS) belong to the group of ceramide lipids within the sphingolipids. Their structure consists of a sphingoid base, specifically dihydrosphingosine, and a fatty acid, which is an α-hydroxy fatty acid. The fatty acid can be of variable length, hydroxylated, and contain double bonds.
Function. The biological functions of alpha-hydroxy-dihydrosphingosines are mainly associated with human skin where they serve structural and signaling roles. AdS ceramides contribute to epidermal barrier function to protect against the environment and prevent trans-epidermal water loss. They are critical to barrier homeostasis. Imbalanced skin ceramides can contribute or lead to the development of skin conditions. Further, AdS ceramides are decreased in Albino African skin.
