Analysis of Lipids in Ceramide-Enriched Membrane Domains

Ceramide can be generated on cell surfaces by the activity of the acid sphingomyelinase. The unique biophysical properties of ceramide result in the self-formation of small ceramide-enriched membrane domains that spontaneously fuse to large ceramide-enriched membrane macrodomains. The present chapter describes how these domains can be labeled and thereby visualized in cells. Further, the chapter provides protocols how ceramide and sphingosine can be quantified on the surface of cells and organs.