UDP-N-acetylglucosamine transporter (SLC35A3) regulates biosynthesis of highly branched N-glycans and keratan sulfate

Abstract

Background: Knowledge regarding UDP-N-acetylglucosamine transporter (NGT; SLC35A3) is incomplete due to the lack of NGT-deficient model cell lines. Results: The siRNA approach showed that NGT silencing reduces branching of complex N-glycans and keratan sulfate synthesis. Conclusion: NGT function may be coupled to the specific glycosylation pathway(s) of particular macromolecules. Significance: Our results add to the understanding of glycosylation, one of the basic posttranslational modifications. © 2013 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.