Six Trigalactosylceramides from the Leech (Hirudo nipponica)

Abstract

Six neutral glycosphingolipids were isolated in the pure state from the leech, Hirudo nipponica (Annelida). In contrast to the zwitterionic monogalactosylceramides carrying a choline phosphate group so far obtained, all compounds are non-zwitterionic glycosphingolipids, trigalactosylceramides. Five compounds possess a Galα1-6Galα1-6Galβ1-Cer core, and one is unique in having a Galα1-6Galβ1-6Galβ1-Cer structure. Their full structures have been determined on the bases of chemical and spectral evidence.