Glycans

Definition

Glycans are complex carbohydrates composed of sugar molecules linked together. They play crucial roles in cell recognition, signaling, and microbial pathogenicity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Glycans are essential components of the cell surface and extracellular matrix in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.
2. Pathogens often exploit glycans on host cells to adhere and initiate infection.
3. The diversity of glycan structures allows for specific interactions with proteins, influencing immune response.
4. Glycosylation, the process of adding glycans to proteins or lipids, can affect the virulence of pathogens.
5. Glycan-binding proteins such as lectins are critical for host-pathogen interactions.

Review Questions

Related terms

Lectins: Proteins that bind specifically to certain sugars and play a role in cell-cell recognition.

Glycosylation:

The enzymatic process that attaches glycans to proteins or lipids.

Extracellular Matrix: A network of molecules outside cells including proteins and glycans that provide structural support.