Glucocerebrosides are a class of glycosphingolipids composed of ceramide linked to a glucose molecule, serving as key components in cell membranes and lipid metabolism. They are particularly significant in the context of Gaucher's disease, a lysosomal storage disorder caused by deficiency of the enzyme glucocerebrosidase, leading to accumulation of glucocerebrosides in cells of the spleen, liver, and bone marrow. This buildup results in organ enlargement, anemia, and skeletal complications. As a research reagent, glucocerebrosides (often derived from natural sources like bovine spleen, hence the association with 'Gaucher's spleen') are used in biochemical studies to investigate lipid storage disorders, enzyme kinetics, and cellular trafficking. In therapeutic applications, enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) involves administering recombinant glucocerebrosidase to hydrolyze accumulated glucocerebrosides, while substrate reduction therapy (SRT) employs inhibitors to limit their synthesis. Additionally, they serve as biomarkers for disease monitoring and in developing novel treatments, underscoring their role in biomedical research and clinical practice.