Abstract:Sulfatide is expressed extensively in the nervous system, kidney, liver, spleen, stomach, small intestine and serum.Sulfatide is reported to play an important role in atherosclerosis, blood clotting and platelet function. Cardiovascular diseasesare the leading cause of death in patients with renal failure. The levels of sulfatide in patients with chronic kidney diseases gradually decreases alongside with glomerular filtration rate deterioration. Early monitoring of serum sulfatide in patients with cardiovascular disease and renal insufficiency promotes early interventions, which help delay the proceeding of heart and renal insufficiency. This article reviews the action of sulfatide on the occurrence and development of cardiovascular diseases and renal failure, and discusses the potential mechanisms.