Role of Ceramide in Acute Coronary Syndrome and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

Ceramides are a class of bioactive sphingolipids that play a crucial structural and regulatory role within cell membranes. They are essential components of the stratum corneum, where they contribute to maintaining skin barrier integrity, preventing excessive transepidermal water loss, and protecting against environmental irritants and pathogens. Beyond their structural function, ceramides act as signaling molecules involved in cellular processes such as apoptosis, inflammation, cell differentiation, and response to stress. Alterations in ceramide metabolism or reduced ceramide levels have been implicated in various dermatological and systemic disorders. For example, decreased ceramide content in the epidermis is strongly associated with skin barrier dysfunction, as seen in atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and xerosis. Additionally, ceramide dysregulation has been linked to metabolic diseases, insulin resistance, and neurodegenerative conditions due to its role in cell signaling pathways and inflammation. Therapeutically, topical ceramide-containing formulations are widely used to restore skin hydration and barrier function, while systemic modulation of ceramide pathways is being explored for broader clinical applications.