NCIt definition : One of a number of a class of sphingolipids, N-acyl derivatives with long chains.
Ceramide is the core molecule for the synthesis of sphingomyelin, an essential lipid
for myelination and neurotransmission; it may function as a second messenger to stimulate
differentiation, inhibit proliferation, and induce apoptosis. (NCI04);
Alternative definition : NCI-GLOSS: A type of lipid (fat) found in the membranes of cells and the covers of
nerves. Some ceramides are important in signal transduction (the process by which
a cell responds to substances in its environment) and may cause some types of cells
to die. Ceramides are being studied in the treatment of cancer.;
Currated CISMeF NLP mapping