Comparative biochemical view of N-glycans

Abstract

N-Linked glycans are common in eukaryotes, as they are attached to many different proteins. They are classified into three categories termed high mannose, paucimannose, and complex (include hybrid ) types. Each phylogenetic group of living organisms has characteristic glycans. In most cases their full significance is unknown, although several functions may be known. For example high mannose-type glycans take part in quality control during the synthesis of proteins. In this review, N-linked glycans are looked at from the viewpoint of their phylogeny and ontogeny. ©2005 FCCA (Forum: Carbohydrates Coming of Age).