The Structure of Glycoproteins

Abstract

Abstract Eight variants of the α1-acid glycoprotein of human serum were isolated by column zone electrophoresis in a denaturing, viscous buffer. Six of these monomers were analyzed and found to have similar molecular weights, to possess 11 or 12 oligosaccharide side chains, and to have the same amino acid and carbohydrate compositions. Eight variants were also observed when the protein thiol of the α1-acid glycoprotein was subjected to zone electrophoresis in a denaturing and reducing buffer. The data indicate that the electrophoretic differences between the variants is not a result of differences in the primary or tertiary structures.