Journal of Glycomics & Lipidomics
Open Access

The Impact of Glycans on Innate Immunity

Sofia Lauc^{* *}Correspondence: Sofia Lauc, Department of Biology, University of Zagreb, Horvatovac 102a, Zagreb, Croatia, Email:

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Description

Innate immunity serves as the first line of defence against invading pathogens, providing rapid and nonspecific protection to the host. While the immune system's cellular and soluble components play crucial roles in this defence, recent research has shed light on the significant influence of glycan-complex sugar molecules on innate immune responses. Glycans are found on the surface of cells, proteins and they serve as crucial mediators in various immune processes. This research highlighting growth of understanding of the glycan effect on innate immunity and its implications for human health.

Glycans as mediators of innate immune recognition

Recognition of pathogens by the innate immune system is a critical step in mounting an effective immune response. Glycans play a central role in this process by serving as molecular patterns recognized by Pattern Recognition Receptors (PRRs) on immune cells. PRRs, such as Toll Like Receptors (TLRs) and Ctype Lectin Receptors (CLRs), can detect specific glycan structures on pathogens and trigger immune responses. This glycan mediated recognition allows the immune system to distinguish between self and non-self, facilitating the initiation of appropriate immune reactions [1,2].

Glycan diversity and immune response modulation

The vast diversity of glycans contributes to the complexity of innate immune responses. Different glycan structures can elicit distinct immune reactions, ranging from pro-inflammatory to anti-inflammatory outcomes. For instance, high-mannose glycans commonly found on pathogens can activate TLRs and promote the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, contributing to the elimination of the invading microorganisms. On the other hand, glycans with complex branching patterns, often present on host cells, can interact with CLRs and initiate anti-inflammatory responses that help maintain immune homeostasis and prevent excessive inflammation.

Glycans in host-pathogen interactions

Glycans are essential players in host-pathogen interactions, influencing the outcome of infections. Pathogens can manipulate host immune responses by altering their glycan profiles or secreting glycan like molecules that interfere with host immune recognition. Conversely, host glycans can act as "molecular decoys" by binding to pathogen derived toxins or adhesins, preventing their attachment to host cells and subsequent infection. The interplay between glycans and the immune system in these interactions highlights the significance of glycan-mediated immune modulation [3,4].

Therapeutic implications and future perspectives

The emerging understanding of the glycan effect on innate immunity has opened new avenues for therapeutic interventions. Targeting glycan PRR interactions can potentially modulate immune responses in various diseases, including infectious diseases, autoimmune disorders, and cancer [5]. Manipulating glycans on pathogens or host cells could enhance immune recognition and clearance of pathogens or alleviate aberrant immune responses. However, considerable challenges remain, including the complexity of glycan structures and the need for precise targeting strategies.

Conclusion

Glycans exert a profound influence on innate immunity, acting as key mediators in immune recognition, response modulation, and host-pathogen interactions. Appreciating the diverse roles of glycans in innate immune processes is crucial for understanding the intricate interplay between pathogens and the host immune system. Further research in this field promises to uncover novel therapeutic strategies harnessing the glycan-immune axis, ultimately leading to improved disease management and human health.

References

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