Table of Contents
Overview
Definition and Scope
Glycobiology is defined as the study of the structure, biosynthesis, and biology of saccharides, commonly referred to as glycans, which are widely distributed across all life forms.[8.1] This field encompasses the investigation of glycan functions in relation to their structures, recognition, and biosynthesis, as well as their molecular context, including biological scaffolds such as glycolipids and glycoproteins.[9.1] The scope of glycobiology is extensive, as it plays a crucial role in various biological processes and is relevant to multiple areas of research, including basic science, biomedicine, and biotechnology.[4.1] Glycans are essential components of living organisms, contributing to critical functions such as cell-cell interactions, protein folding, and cellular attachment.[8.1] Furthermore, the N-linked glycans of proteins can modulate their functions, sometimes acting as regulatory switches.[8.1] Glycobiology also intersects with other scientific disciplines, leading to the emergence of glycoscience, which includes the chemistry of carbohydrates and their synthetic methodologies.[9.1] The systematic study of glycan structures within specific cell types or organisms, known as glycomics, is a significant subset of glycobiology, analogous to genomics and proteomics.[8.1] Overall, glycobiology is a rapidly evolving field that continues to expand its relevance and applications in various scientific domains.[4.1]Importance in Biomedicine and Biotechnology
Glycobiology is pivotal in biomedicine and biotechnology, especially for understanding and treating various diseases. Recent advancements in glycan detection technologies have shed light on diseases such as COVID-19, diabetes, cancer, and congenital abnormalities, underscoring the importance of glycans in disease mechanisms and therapeutic strategies.[23.1] The integration of glycobiology into diagnostic techniques is expected to enhance disease detection and treatment, with innovative methods like mass spectrometry aiding in the identification and monitoring of disease-specific glycoprotein glycoforms.[18.1] Furthermore, the structural diversity of N-glycans synthesized in eukaryotes reflects evolutionary adaptations that may influence immune responses and pathogen interactions.[12.1] This diversity is not merely a biochemical curiosity; it has implications for understanding evolutionary biology and disease mechanisms, as pathogens often exploit glycan structures to evade host defenses.[14.1] The field of glycobiology is also merging with systems biology, promising to deepen our understanding of complex diseases and improve the development of diagnostics and therapeutics.[22.1] Glycan-based therapies have gained prominence in the 21st century, with applications in creating peptide hormones like pramlintide for diabetes treatment.[23.1] As research progresses, the potential for glycobiology to contribute to drug discovery and cancer immunotherapy remains a vibrant area of investigation.[19.1]History
Early Discoveries and Milestones
The field of glycobiology has evolved significantly over the years, marked by several key discoveries and milestones that have shaped its trajectory. The early years of glycobiology, particularly from the 1950s to the 1980s, were characterized by foundational research that established the importance of carbohydrates in biological systems. Notable milestones during this period include the demonstration of N-acetyllactosamine in α1-acid glycoprotein by M.R.J. Salton and colleagues in 1962, which highlighted the complexity of glycoproteins.[52.1] Following this, the discovery of Kdo in lipopolysaccharide by M.J. Osborn and E.C. Heath between 1963 and 1966 further underscored the significance of glycans in cellular structures.[52.1] The late 1960s saw advancements in understanding N-glycans, particularly their increased size in malignantly transformed cells, as researched by B.L. Horecker and others.[52.1] This period also included the work of C.R.H. Raetz in 1983, who confirmed the structure of lipid A, a crucial component of bacterial membranes, thereby linking glycobiology to microbiology.[52.1] The 1986 study by J.U. Baenziger on the structures of sulfated N-glycans of pituitary hormones added to the understanding of glycan diversity and function in hormonal regulation.[52.1] As glycobiology progressed into the 21st century, it became increasingly recognized for its relevance in medicine, particularly in the development of glycan-based therapies. The field has been propelled by advancements in glycan detection technologies, which have illuminated the roles of glycans in various diseases, including COVID-19, diabetes, and cancer.[55.1] This growing understanding of carbohydrate biology has not only provided insights into complex diseases but has also fostered the development of diagnostics and therapeutics, marking a significant success for glycobiology in contemporary medicine.[55.1]Evolution of Glycobiology as a Discipline
The evolution of glycobiology as a discipline has been marked by a significant transition from traditional carbohydrate chemistry to a more interdisciplinary approach that integrates various scientific fields. This shift has reshaped research methodologies and enhanced our understanding of biological processes. The Harvard Medical School Center for Glycoscience exemplifies this interdisciplinary approach, leading collaborative research that translates glycobiological knowledge into practical applications for the prevention, detection, and treatment of various conditions, including cancer and infectious diseases.[89.1] Research in glycobiology now encompasses a wide range of applications, including neurobiology, aging, cancer, and the microbiome, reflecting its growing importance in modern science.[91.1] The integration of molecular, synthetic, and systems biology with immunology and biological engineering has allowed researchers to address fundamental questions and develop therapeutic strategies.[91.1] For instance, the Capicciotti Lab employs organic chemistry to explore the role of glycans in health and disease, focusing on their interactions with proteins and cellular functions.[90.1] Moreover, the emergence of glycomics as a subspecialty has further propelled the field, evaluating the structures and functions of glycans in biological systems and informing personalized medicine approaches.[76.1] This evolution highlights the critical role of glycans in inflammation, immune function, and cellular communication, underscoring the necessity of understanding glycan dynamics for tailored medical interventions.[77.1]Recent Advancements
Breakthroughs in Glycan-Based Therapies
Recent advancements in glycobiology have led to significant breakthroughs in glycan-based therapies, particularly in the fields of cancer treatment and infectious diseases. Glycans, which are complex carbohydrates, play a crucial role in various biological processes and disease mechanisms, making them valuable targets for therapeutic interventions. For instance, the development of glycan-based therapies has been highlighted as one of the most significant successes of the 21st century, particularly in the context of diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and COVID-19.[99.1] One notable area of progress is the use of glyco-mimetics, which are designed to mimic the interactions of glycans with their biological targets. Companies like GlycoMimetics, Inc. have pioneered the development of drugs that target these carbohydrate molecules, offering new hope for patients suffering from cancer and other diseases.[101.1] This approach not only enhances the specificity of treatments but also aims to minimize side effects commonly associated with traditional therapies. Furthermore, glycan-based therapies have shown promise in improving the efficacy of cancer treatments by targeting cancer-associated glycans. These glycans represent valuable opportunities for cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy, as they can be specifically targeted to enhance treatment outcomes while reducing adverse effects.[115.1] This targeted approach contrasts with conventional cancer therapies, which often affect both healthy and cancerous cells indiscriminately. In the context of infectious diseases, recent research has underscored the importance of glycobiology in understanding the mechanisms of viral infections, such as SARS-CoV-2. The glycosylation of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, which contains numerous glycosylation sites, plays a critical role in the virus's ability to infect host cells.[112.1] This understanding has informed the development of vaccines and therapeutic strategies, highlighting the potential of glycobiology to influence public health responses to viral outbreaks.[113.1]Innovations in Analytical Tools and Techniques
Recent advancements in glycobiology have been significantly influenced by the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, which enhance the analysis and interpretation of glycan structures. One notable development is CandyCrunch, a deep learning-based tool designed to predict glycan structures from tandem mass spectrometry data, which addresses the bottleneck in annotating structural glycomics data.[107.1] This tool, along with CandyCrumbs, which automatically annotates fragment ions, exemplifies how AI can streamline the analysis process in glycobiology.[107.1] AI's application in glycosylation analysis has been reviewed extensively, highlighting state-of-the-art approaches that not only facilitate mechanistic insights into glycosylation machinery but also elucidate how this machinery influences glycans under various conditions.[106.1] Despite the challenges posed by the complex and non-templated nature of glycan biosynthesis, the accumulation of glycomics and glycoproteomics data has reached a level where modern deep learning methods can yield predictors with commendable performance.[109.1] Moreover, interdisciplinary collaboration plays a crucial role in advancing analytical techniques in glycobiology. Institutions like the Harvard Medical School Center for Glycoscience exemplify this collaborative approach, focusing on translating glycobiology research into practical applications for preventing and treating diseases such as cancer and infectious diseases.[123.1] Similarly, the University of Missouri emphasizes partnerships across various fields to enhance research outcomes in both human and animal health, particularly in the context of emerging infectious diseases.[124.1] Recent advancements in analytical strategies for glycan and glycopeptide quantification have also been noteworthy. The past decade has seen a significant increase in methodologies, particularly mass-spectrometry-based strategies, which have expanded to include metabolic labeling techniques.[126.1] Additionally, both offline and online liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) approaches have been employed for glycan profiling, enabling the detection of low-abundance glycans and glycoconjugates, thus facilitating the analysis of complex mixtures.[127.1] These innovations collectively underscore the dynamic evolution of analytical tools and techniques in the field of glycobiology.In this section:
Key Concepts
Structure and Function of Glycans
Glycans, or sugar chains, are complex structures that play critical roles in various biological processes. They are primarily found attached to proteins (glycoproteins) and lipids (glycolipids) on cell surfaces, where they are involved in essential functions such as cell-cell recognition, signaling, and adhesion.[143.1] The study of glycans encompasses their structure, biosynthesis, and biological significance, making glycobiology a rapidly growing field within the natural sciences.[141.1] The biological functions of glycans can be categorized into three broad areas: structural contributions, energy metabolism, and information carriers. Structural roles include their involvement in extracellular scaffolds, such as cell walls and extracellular matrices, which are vital for maintaining cellular integrity and function.[145.1] In terms of energy metabolism, glycans serve as carbon sources for storage and play roles in processes like pollination and seed dispersal.[145.1] Additionally, glycans act as information carriers, recognized by glycan-binding proteins (GBPs), which facilitate various biological interactions.[146.1] The structural variations in glycans significantly influence their biological functions. For instance, the specificity of interactions between glycans and GBPs is regulated by the structural recognition of glycan motifs, which can vary widely.[146.1] This structural diversity is crucial for the functionality of glycans in different biological contexts, including their roles in immune activation and receptor interactions.[151.1] Moreover, sulfated glycans, a major class of enzymatically modified glycans, are found on cell surfaces and within the extracellular matrix, where they mediate binding interactions and provide structural support.[147.1] Understanding the intricate structures of glycans is essential for various applications, including drug development. Glycosylation, the process of adding glycans to proteins, can significantly shape the efficacy and safety of therapeutic agents.[150.1] For example, variations in glycan structure can impact the stability and clinical efficacy of protein-based drugs, highlighting the importance of glycan analysis in biopharmaceutical research.[150.1] Overall, the study of glycans is fundamental to understanding their diverse roles in biological systems and their potential applications in medicine and biotechnology.Glycan Biosynthesis and Degradation
N-glycosylation is a critical post-translational modification of proteins that is essential across all domains of life. The process of N-glycan biosynthesis is intricate and dynamic, characterized by its non-templated nature. This complexity arises from the modulation of specific glycoforms by various microenvironmental cues, cellular signals, and the local availability of dedicated enzymes and sugar precursors.[165.1] The initial steps of N-glycan biosynthesis occur in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and are conserved across all three domains of life, indicating a fundamental biological importance. However, the subsequent processing and maturation of these glycans exhibit significant variability among different species and tissues.[166.1] All N-glycans share a common core structure, specifically asn-GlcNAc2Man3-, which is then further elongated in a manner that is specific to the species and tissue type.[166.1] The enzymes involved in this biosynthetic pathway, such as MAN2A1 and MGAT2, play crucial roles in recognizing and modifying specific sugar residues. The specificity of these enzymes is influenced by both a consensus sequence and the proper folding of their domains, which are essential for their activity.[164.1] A comprehensive comparative analysis of glycosyltransferase sequences from diverse organisms is necessary to fully understand the implications of enzyme specificity on the diversity of glycan structures.[164.1] This diversity in glycan structures is significant, as it contributes to the functional variability of glycoproteins and their interactions within biological systems.In this section:
Applications
Therapeutic Uses of Glycans
Glycobiology has significant therapeutic applications, particularly in the development of carbohydrate-based therapeutics. These include inhibitors targeting microbial pathogens and their toxins, cancer vaccines, and drugs aimed at suppressing the immune system for the treatment of inflammation and transplant rejection.[184.1] Unlike most therapeutic glycoproteins that interact with target receptors on the surface of cells, certain lysosomal enzymes developed for enzyme replacement therapy must be delivered intracellularly to lysosomes, which are their sites of action.[184.1] The field of glycobiology also plays a crucial role in the advancement of diagnostic and therapeutic tools. It leverages knowledge about glycans to address medical challenges, develop innovative therapies, and enhance our understanding of diseases, thereby holding vast potential for healthcare applications ranging from personalized medicine to novel treatment strategies.[185.1] Recent developments in glycan-based therapies have gained prominence in medicine, with technologies that facilitate the creation of peptide hormones, such as pramlintide, which is used to treat diabetes.[186.1] Furthermore, glycoconjugate vaccines are pivotal in public health efforts to combat infectious diseases, particularly in developing countries where many diseases remain uncontrolled and antibiotic-resistant bacteria pose a significant threat.[199.1] The increasing complexity of future vaccines necessitates the development of faster approaches to glycoconjugate vaccine design, which is essential for addressing emerging diseases and enhancing current treatment protocols.[200.1]Role in Disease Mechanisms
Glycans play a crucial role in various disease mechanisms, primarily through their interactions with glycan-binding proteins (GBPs). These interactions are essential for mediating biological functions and can significantly influence disease progression. The specificity of glycan-GBP interactions is regulated by the structural recognition of glycan motifs, which can vary widely; for instance, there are over 50 structural variations of sialic acid alone.[146.1] The biological functions of glycans can be categorized into three broad areas: structural roles, energy metabolism, and information carriers. Structural contributions include their involvement in extracellular scaffolds, such as cell walls and extracellular matrices, which are vital for maintaining cellular integrity and function.[197.1] In terms of energy metabolism, glycans serve as carbon sources that can influence behaviors such as pollination and seed dispersal, which can have downstream effects on disease susceptibility in certain organisms.[197.1] Moreover, glycans are critical information carriers, as they are recognized by GBPs, which can trigger various biological responses. This recognition is often context-dependent, influenced by the specific structure of the glycan and its interactions with cognate glycan receptors.[197.1] For example, N-linked glycans are essential for protein folding and stability, while O-linked glycans are involved in cell signaling and cell-cell interactions, both of which can have implications in disease mechanisms.[195.1]Future Directions
Emerging Research Areas
Emerging research areas in glycobiology are increasingly focused on the complex roles of glycosylation in various biological processes and disease states. Recent advancements highlight the significance of glycobiology in understanding SARS-CoV-2 infection and immunity, cancer biology, and immunotherapy, as well as the discovery of glycosylated RNAs, which are critical for advancing our knowledge in these fields.[222.1] Technological innovations are also shaping the future of glycobiology, as researchers recognize the importance of glycans—complex carbohydrates—in biological systems.[223.1] The field is poised for growth, with unresolved questions identified by leading scientists, including the rise of molecular glycobiology and the need for a glycan decoder to better understand glycan functions.[224.1] Moreover, the potential applications of glycosciences extend beyond basic research to impact human health, material science, and renewable energy. Anticipated technological advances are expected to facilitate these developments, while also addressing critical questions that remain in the field.[226.1] Interdisciplinary collaboration is envisioned as a key driver in glycobiology research, fostering partnerships across various scientific domains to enhance the understanding and application of glycobiology in biotechnology.[231.1] This collaborative approach is essential for translating glycobiological knowledge into practical solutions for disease prevention, detection, and treatment. In the context of sustainable materials, glycobiology is being integrated into the development of environmentally friendly alternatives. Current research emphasizes the design of materials derived from renewable sources and processed using sustainable methods, which aligns with the growing demand for sustainable solutions in material science.[236.1] The exploration of bio-inspired designs, such as those mimicking biological structures, presents opportunities for creating innovative materials that replicate the functionality and sustainability of natural systems.[237.1] Finally, advancements in glycobiology are significantly influencing vaccine development, particularly in response to emerging infectious diseases like SARS-CoV-2. The heavily glycosylated spike protein of the virus presents unique challenges and opportunities for vaccine efficacy, as understanding its glycosylation pattern may enhance the design of more effective vaccines.[239.1] Recent technological advances in glycobiology and glycochemistry are paving the way for a new era in carbohydrate vaccine design, with synthetic glycoconjugate vaccines showing promise in modulating immune responses against various infections and cancers.[241.1]Potential for Glycotherapy and Personalized Medicine
Recent advancements in glycobiology have significantly enhanced the understanding of glycosylation's role in cancer progression and treatment, paving the way for innovative therapeutic strategies. The identification of abnormal glycoproteins on cell surfaces as indicators for cancer prediction exemplifies how these advancements are being utilized to develop detection technologies that could improve cancer treatment outcomes.[227.1] Furthermore, the changes in glycosylation during cancer progression are influenced by microenvironmental cues, which promote functional alterations in cells, thereby affecting treatment responses.[228.1] The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) has revealed numerous alterations in the expression of glycosylation-associated genes that correlate with various cancers, indicating that the regulation of carbohydrate epitopes on glycoconjugates by glycan processing enzymes can impact tumor progression and metastasis.[229.1] This understanding underscores the potential of targeting glycan structures and their biosynthetic pathways in cancer therapy, as glycans can intervene at multiple stages of tumor progression.[230.1] In addition to cancer, glycobiology holds promise for applications in other fields such as neurobiology, aging, infectious diseases, and the microbiome.[246.1] The global glycomics market is expected to grow significantly, reflecting the rising focus on glycobiology and its applications in biotechnology.[245.1] Strategic collaborations among pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, and academic institutions are being formed to accelerate glycomics research and commercialization, supported by increased funding from governments and private investors recognizing the transformative potential of glycobiology in healthcare.[247.1]In this section:
References
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[90] Capicciotti Lab — Chemical Glycobiology Laboratory. The Capicciotti Lab's interdisciplinary research uses organic chemistry to answer complex biological questions about carbohydrates. We are interested in elucidating the role of glycans in health and disease by studying their interactions with proteins and how they function in cells.
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[109] Glycoinformatics in the Artificial Intelligence Era - PubMed — Nonetheless, as time goes, the accumulation of glycomics, glycoproteomics, and glycan-binding data has reached a point where even the most recent deep learning methods can provide predictors with good performance. We discuss the historical development of the application of various AI methods in the broader field of glycoinformatics.
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[115] Targeting the "Sweet Side" of Tumor with Glycan-Binding Molecules ... — Nanotechnology is an emerging technology that may change the face of cancer diagnosis and therapy by the development of a new targeted system, with numerous advantages for tumor visualization and eradication. Cancer-associated glycans represent valuable opportunities for cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy.
[123] Harvard Medical School Center for Glycoscience | BIDMC of Boston — The Harvard Medical School Center for Glycoscience leads highly collaborative, interdisciplinary glycobiology research and translates this knowledge into the prevention, detection, and treatment of a host of conditions, including cancer, inflammation, infectious diseases, immunity, and congenital disorders.
[124] Assistant/Associate Professor/Professor of Glycobiology - T/TT Research — The ideal candidate should have a strong interest in developing and applying glycobiology approaches to both basic and translational research, using human studies and swine models to investigate influenza and other emerging infectious diseases. With a strong focus on interdisciplinary collaboration, MU fosters partnerships across its campuses, system, and beyond, driving impactful basic, clinical, and translational research that benefits both human and animal health.The Center for Influenza and Emerging Infectious Diseases (CIEID) is a growing initiative dedicated to developing precision health solutions to combat influenza and other infectious diseases that threaten public and animal health. These state-of-the-art resources, combined with MU’s collaborative research environment, position the university as a leader in research that improves the health of both humans and animals.Application:To apply, visit http://hrs.missouri.edu/find-a-job/academic/ and search for position number 55105.
[126] Recent Advances in Analytical Approaches for Glycan and ... - PubMed — Recent Advances in Analytical Approaches for Glycan and Glycopeptide Quantitation Mol Cell Proteomics. 2021:20: ... the past decade has provided a significant increase in the number of suitable strategies for glycan and glycopeptide quantification. Mass-spectrometry-based strategies for glycomic quantitation have grown to include metabolic
[127] Mass Spectrometry of Glycans - PMC - PubMed Central (PMC) — Both offline and online liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) approaches are used for glycan or glycoconjugate profiling. Glycans/glycoconjugates with low abundance, including N -linked glycans, O -linked glycans, glycopeptides and glycolipids, can be detected by LC/MS and this allows the analysis of complex mixtures [ 39 - 41 ].
[141] What is Glycobiology? - University of California, San Diego — Defined in the broadest sense, glycobiology is the study of the structure, biosynthesis and biology of glycans (carbohydrates). All cells and many proteins are covered with a dense and complex array of covalently attached sugar chains (called oligosaccharides or glycans). The biological roles of these glycans become particularly important in
[143] 4 Examples of glycans and how they're used - longevity.technology — Glycans are sophisticated structures that play critical roles in nearly every biological process . They can be found attached to proteins (glycoproteins) or lipids (glycolipids) on the surfaces of cells, where they're involved in cell-cell recognition, signaling, and adhesion.
[145] Biological Functions of Glycans - Essentials of Glycobiology - NCBI ... — This chapter provides an overview of the biological functions of glycans in three broad categories: structural roles in, on, and outside cells; energy metabolism, including nutrient storage and sequestration; and information carriers, that is, specific recognition—most commonly by glycan-binding proteins of intrinsic or extrinsic origin. Biological functions of glycans can be divided into three broad categories: (1) structural contributions (e.g., extracellular scaffolds: cell walls and extracellular matrices, protein folding and function); (2) energy metabolism (e.g., carbohydrates as carbon sources for storage and manipulation of animal behavior: pollination and seed dispersal); and (3) information carriers (e.g., molecular patterns recognized by glycan binding proteins [GBPs]) (Figure 7.1). The effect may depend on the structure of the glycan, the biological context (including interactions with cognate glycan receptors), GBPs, and the specific biological function.
[146] Harnessing glycomics technologies: integrating structure with function ... — Biological functions of glycans are mediated largely by their interactions with glycan-binding proteins (GBPs), and the specificity of these interactions is in turn regulated by the structural recognition of glycan motifs in the context of multivalent glycan-GBP interactions. ... There are more than 50 structural variations of the sialic acid
[147] Modifications of Glycans: Biological Significance and Therapeutic ... — Sulfated glycans are a major class of enzymatically modified glycans with important biological functions. All classes of glycans can be sulfated. Sulfated glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are found on cell surfaces and within the extracellular matrix, where they mediate binding interactions and provide structural support.
[150] Glycosylation shapes the efficacy and safety of diverse ... - PubMed — Glycosylation shapes the efficacy and safety of diverse protein, gene and cell therapies ... we discuss specific examples of how variations in glycan structure and glycoengineering impacts the stability, safety, and clinical efficacy of protein-based drugs that are already in the market as well as those that are still in preclinical development
[151] Antibody Glycosylation: A Key Factor in Therapeutic Outcomes — The attached carbohydrate structures influence immune activation, half-life, and receptor interactions, making them a critical consideration in drug development. Even small variations in glycan composition can significantly alter an antibody's performance in clinical applications.
[164] Emerging structural insights into glycosyltransferase-mediated ... — MAN2A1 acts one step before MGAT2 in N-glycan biosynthesis ... These structures clearly demonstrate why both a consensus sequence and a properly folded domain are needed for modification by these enzymes. ... will only come from a more comprehensive comparative analysis of GT sequences from varied organism sources paired with enzyme specificity
[165] N-glycans as functional effectors of genetic and epigenetic disease ... — N-glycosylation is a frequent modification of proteins, essential for all domains of life. N-glycan biosynthesis is a dynamic, complex, non-templated process, wherein specific glycoforms are modulated by various microenvironmental cues, cellular signals and local availability of dedicated enzymes and sugar precursors.
[166] N-Glycan Biosynthesis: Basic Principles and Factors ... - Springer — 7.2.1 Building Blocks for N-Glycan Synthesis. The early steps in N-glycan biosynthesis in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) are conserved in all three domains of life (Dell et al. 2010), whereas their processing and maturation differ markedly.All N-glycans share a common core structure (asn-GlcNAc2Man3-) which is further elongated in a species- and tissue-specific manner (Medzihradszky et al
[184] Glycobiology in Biotechnology and Medicine - Essentials of Glycobiology ... — Examples of carbohydrate-based therapeutics in development include inhibitors of microbial pathogens and their toxins, cancer vaccines, and drugs designed to suppress the immune system for treatment of inflammation and transplant rejection. Unlike most therapeutic glycoproteins that interact with target receptors on the surface of cells, lysosomal enzymes developed for enzyme replacement therapy must be delivered intracellularly to lysosomes, their site of action. Other therapeutics under development based on modulating protein-carbohydrate interactions include small-molecule inhibitors of heparin-growth factor interactions in cancer, inflammation, and angiogenesis. Mendel D B, Tai C Y, Escarpe P A, Li W X, Sidwell R W, Huffman J H, Sweet C, Jakeman K J, Merson J, Lacy S A, Lew W, Williams M A, Zhang L J, Chen M S, Bischofberger N, Kim C U.
[185] PDF — diagnostic and therapeutic tools. Translation glycobiology is a multidisciplinary field that leverages knowledge about glycans to address medical challenges, develop innovative therapies, and improve our understanding of diseases. Its potential impact on healthcare is vast, ranging from personalized medicine to novel
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[195] Glycan - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics — For example, N-linked glycans are important for protein folding and stability, while the O-linked glycans are involved in cell signaling and cell-cell interactions (Schombs and Gervay-Hague, 2016). The biosynthesis of glycoproteins is a complex process that primarily takes place in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and the Golgi apparatus.
[197] Biological Functions of Glycans - Essentials of Glycobiology - NCBI ... — This chapter provides an overview of the biological functions of glycans in three broad categories: structural roles in, on, and outside cells; energy metabolism, including nutrient storage and sequestration; and information carriers, that is, specific recognition—most commonly by glycan-binding proteins of intrinsic or extrinsic origin. Biological functions of glycans can be divided into three broad categories: (1) structural contributions (e.g., extracellular scaffolds: cell walls and extracellular matrices, protein folding and function); (2) energy metabolism (e.g., carbohydrates as carbon sources for storage and manipulation of animal behavior: pollination and seed dispersal); and (3) information carriers (e.g., molecular patterns recognized by glycan binding proteins [GBPs]) (Figure 7.1). The effect may depend on the structure of the glycan, the biological context (including interactions with cognate glycan receptors), GBPs, and the specific biological function.
[199] Glycoconjugates: Advances in modern medicines and human health — Glycoconjugate vaccines are pivotal in the public health toolkit to combat infectious diseases. Numerous diseases continue to require effective control measures, particularly in developing countries, and the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria represents a significant and worrisome public health challenge.
[200] Glycoconjugate vaccines: current approaches towards faster vaccine ... — Many diseases remain to be controlled, especially in developing countries, and emerging antibiotic-resistant bacteria present an alarming public-health threat. The increasing complexity of future vaccines, and the need to accelerate development processes have triggered the development of faster approaches to glycoconjugate vaccines design.
[222] Sugar Highs: Recent Notable Breakthroughs in Glycobiology — Glycosylation is biochemically complex and functionally critical to a wide range of processes and disease states, making it a vibrant area of contemporary research. Here, we highlight a selection of notable recent advances in the glycobiology of SARS-CoV-2 infection and immunity, cancer biology and immunotherapy, and newly discovered glycosylated RNAs. Together, these studies illustrate the
[223] Technological Advances Shaping Glycobiology - Scholars Globe Guest Post ... — Technological Advances Shaping Glycobiology March 25, 2025 Author: cailynnjohnson. Glycobiology, the study of carbohydrates and their interactions in biological systems, has gained considerable attention from researchers and scientists in recent years. This is largely due to the recognition of glycans—complex carbohydrates—as critical
[224] What comes next in glycobiology - Glycopedia — Nevertheless, there are promising advancements on the horizon for the future of glycobiology. The article "What Comes Next in Glycobiology" discusses unresolved questions in ten areas of glycobiology, as identified by prominent scientists in the field: The rise of molecular glycobiology; The necessity for a glycan decoder
[226] Future Directions in Glycosciences - PubMed — This closing chapter discusses the future potential of glycosciences for impacting basic and applied research, human health, material science, and renewable energy. Technological advances predicted to occur in the coming years are mentioned. Finally, a sampling of glycoscience-related questions that remain to be addressed in the future is
[227] Altered glycosylation in cancer: molecular functions and therapeutic ... — Recent advancements in glycobiology have led to the development of detection technologies that utilize abnormal glycoproteins on the cell surface as indicators for cancer prediction. ... the mechanisms of glycosylation and identifying glycoprotein biomarkers will contribute to the advancement of cancer treatment, offering scientific guidance
[228] Sugar symphony: glycosylation in cancer metabolism and stemness — The changes in glycosylation during cancer progression decisively impact the cell based on the microenvironmental cues, which then promote functional alterations. ... These technological advancements highlight the influence of glycosylation on cell behavior and treatment responses. ... Here we highlight key recent advancements in glycobiology
[229] Glycosylation in cancer: its application as a biomarker and recent ... — In recent years, The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) identified many alterations in the expression of glycosylation-associated genes that correlate with cancers [].The expression of carbohydrate epitopes on glycoconjugates is regulated by their respective glycan processing enzymes, which can affect tumor progression and metastasis .Many proteins are modified by N-glycosylation.
[230] Altered glycosylation in cancer: A promising target for ... - PubMed — The ability of glycans in intervening various stages of tumor progression and the biosynthetic pathways involved in glycan structures constitute a promising target for cancer therapy. Advances in the knowledge of innovative strategies for identifying the mechanisms of glycan-binding proteins are hoped to hold great potential in cancer therapy.
[231] A Conversation with Richard Cummings, PhD | BIDMC of Boston — Specifically, we plan to lead highly collaborative, interdisciplinary glycobiology research and translate this knowledge into the prevention, detection, and cure of a host of diseases. The center will provide investigators from throughout Harvard with the opportunity to network, form collaborations, share resources, and work together on solving
[236] Progress in Sustainable Polymers from Biological Matter — The increasing consumption of nonrenewable materials urgently calls for the design and fabrication of sustainable alternatives. New generations of materials should be derived from renewable sources, processed using environmentally friendly methods, and designed considering their full life cycle, especially their end-of-life fate. Here, we review recent advances in developing sustainable
[237] Challenges and opportunities for innovation in bioinformed sustainable ... — Nature provides a rich source of information for the design of novel materials; yet there remain significant challenges in the design and manufacture of materials that replicate the form, function, and sustainability of biological solutions. Biological materials and structure such as diatom shells (a, b, c), shark skin (d, e, f), moth antennae (g, h, i), and compound eyes (j, k, l) often vary in structure across species depending on ecological context. D.S.-F., L.N., L.B., A.T.D.B., S.J.B., M.A.E., A.R.E., A.M.F., K.H.-O., J.A.H, F.J., A.L.-J., J.K., J.Mc.G., J.M., M.Mi., M.Mu., C.N., A.J.O., T.S., G.E.S.-T., N.H.V., A.W., G.S.W., J.A.W., L.W., and W.W.H.W. contributed to ideation during a two-day Bioinspired Advanced Materials workshop. From these deliberations, D.S.F., L.N., N.H.V., K.H.O., A.R.E., C.N., M.Mu., and F.J. wrote the initial manuscript draft, which all authors subsequently edited.
[239] Glycosylation in SARS-CoV-2 variants: A path to infection and recovery — The paucity of research in glycobiology may impede the significance of its role in the pandemic guidelines. The SARS-CoV-2 spike protein is heavily glycosylated, with 22 putative N-glycosylation sites and 17 potential O-glycosylation sites discovered thus far.
[241] Recent advances on smart glycoconjugate vaccines in infections and ... — In this review, the latest advancements in development of synthetic glycoconjugate vaccines in infection and cancer have been highlighted. We provide an overview on the role of different immunogenic constructs in the modulation of immune responses in cancer and in some relevant bacterial and viral infections according to the use of different carriers, the diversity of pathological epitopes
[245] Can glycobiology usher in a new era in cancer immunotherapy? — The rising focus on glycobiology: A contributing factor to expected glycomics market growth. According to Grand View Research, the global glycomics market size was valued at $1.65 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.6% from 2023 to 2030.
[246] GlycoMIT Symposium celebrates advancements in glycobiology — Various applications for glycobiology research include neurobiology and aging, cancer, and infectious disease and the microbiome. "Of the three chemical motifs involved in the recognition of pathogens — nucleic acids, proteins, and glycans — glycans are by far the most diverse and poorly understood," said department head and Haslam and
[247] Top 5 Trends Shaping the Future of the Glycomics & Glycobiology Market — Pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, and academic institutions are forming strategic collaborations to accelerate glycomics research and commercialization. Governments and private investors are recognizing the potential of glycobiology in transforming healthcare, leading to increased funding for research and development.