MS/Palm Oil Interaction (IMAGE) Advanced Science Research Center, GC/CUNY Caption The top panel shows a view of the inside of a neuron where C16 fatty acid derived from palm oil is being synthesized into ceramide C16 (CerC16), which impairs mitochondrial function and results in more severe disease course. The bottom panel shows the same scenario in a mouse with genetic deletions of the ceramide enzymes CerS5 and CerS6. The neurons in these mice do not synthesize Cer C16 from palm oil, resulting in milder disease course. Credit Damiel Marechal Usage Restrictions All Rights Reserved License Original content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.