Glycocalyx

Glycocalyx is a sugar-based coating found on the outside of many cells, including bacteria and animal cells. It plays a crucial role in cell-cell interactions, protection, and immunity.

Structure

The Glycocalyx is composed of glycoproteins and glycolipids that are anchored to the cell membrane. The specific composition and structure of the glycocalyx can vary widely between different cell types and species.

Functions

The glycocalyx serves several important functions:

• Protection: It provides a physical barrier that protects the cell from mechanical damage and pathogenic organisms.
• Cell-cell interactions: It mediates cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions, which are crucial for tissue formation and function.
• Immunity: It plays a role in the immune response by presenting antigens to immune cells.

Clinical significance

Alterations in the glycocalyx have been implicated in several diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and inflammatory diseases. Therefore, understanding the structure and function of the glycocalyx could have important implications for the diagnosis and treatment of these diseases.

See also

• Cell membrane
• Glycoprotein
• Glycolipid
• Immune response

References

Glycocalyx Resources
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