An unusual type of phospholipid is found in the myelin sheath that insulates brain axons; abnormalities in the synthesis of this phospholipid can lead to severe neurological dysfunction.What are these phospholipids called?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The phospholipids found in the myelin sheath that are associated with neurological dysfunction are called plasmalogens. Plasmalogens are a unique type of phospholipid that contain a vinyl-ether bond at the sn-1 position of the glycerol backbone, which sets them apart from other phospholipids like phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine. Dysfunction in the synthesis of plasmalogens has been linked to a number of neurological disorders, including Zellweger syndrome, rhizomelic chondrodysplasia punctata, and Alzheimer's disease.

An Unusual Type of Phospholipid Is Found in the Myelin