Unraveling the intricacies of glycosaminoglycan biosynthesis: Decoding the molecular symphony in understanding complex polysaccharide assembly

Biotechnol Adv. 2024 Oct:75:108416. doi: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2024.108416. Epub 2024 Jul 20.

Abstract

Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are extensively utilized in clinical, cosmetic, and healthcare field, as well as in the treatment of thrombosis, osteoarthritis, rheumatism, and cancer. The biological production of GAGs is a strategy that has garnered significant attention due to its numerous advantages over traditional preparation methods. In this review, we embark on a journey to decode the intricate molecular symphony that orchestrates the biosynthesis of glycosaminoglycans. By unraveling the complex interplay of related enzymes and thorough excavation of the intricate metabolic cascades involved, GAGs chain aggregation and transportation, which efficiently and controllably modulate GAGs sulfation patterns involved in biosynthetic pathway, we endeavor to offer a thorough comprehension of how these remarkable GAGs are intricately assembled and pushes the boundaries of our understanding in GAGs biosynthesis.

Keywords: Glycosaminoglycans; Sulfated modification; Synthesis mechanism; Synthetic biology.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Biosynthetic Pathways
  • Glycosaminoglycans* / biosynthesis
  • Glycosaminoglycans* / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Polysaccharides / biosynthesis
  • Polysaccharides / metabolism

Substances

  • Glycosaminoglycans
  • Polysaccharides