Ganglioside GM3 as a gatekeeper of obesity-associated insulin resistance: evidence and mechanisms

Gangliosides constitute a large family of sialic acid-containing glycosphingolipids which play a key regulatory role in a diverse array of cellular processes, including receptor-associated signalling. Accordingly, the aberrant production of the ganglioside GM3 has been linked to pathophysiological changes associated with obesity, which in turn can lead to metabolic disorders such as insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes mellitus. This review examines the role of GM3 in mediating obesity-induced perturbations in metabolic function, including impaired insulin action. By doing so, we highlight the potential use of therapies targeting GM3 biosynthesis in order to counteract obesity-related metabolic disorders.