The function of glycan structures expressed on embryonic stem cells

Abstract

The identities and amounts of glycan structures present on cell surfaces can change dramatically during development. Undifferentiated embryonic stem (ES) cells also express glycan structures on their surfaces and these determine some of the characteristics of the cells. Some of the glycan structures on ES cells are specific to these cells and can be used as markers for ES cells. Others, such as heparan sulfate, are not specific to ES cells but nevertheless have an important function in the cells. In this review, I describe the use of carbohydrate antigens as markers of ES cells and also consider the function of heparan sulfate, a sulfated carbohydrate structure on ES cells, in the maintenance of self-renewal and pluripotency. ©2009 FCCA.