Glycosylation

Definition

Glycosylation is the enzymatic process that attaches glycans to proteins, lipids, or other organic molecules. It plays a crucial role in the proper folding and stability of many proteins, impacting their function and interactions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Glycosylation can affect a microorganism's susceptibility to antimicrobial drugs by altering protein structures.
2. Alterations in glycosylation pathways can lead to drug resistance in some pathogens.
3. N-linked glycosylation occurs in the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus, while O-linked glycosylation occurs in the Golgi apparatus.
4. Glycoproteins on bacterial surfaces can be targets for certain antibiotics, and changes in these glycoproteins can contribute to antibiotic resistance.
5. Enzymes involved in glycosylation are potential targets for developing new antimicrobial drugs.

Review Questions

• How does glycosylation impact protein function in microorganisms?
• What are the two main types of glycosylation, and where do they occur?
• How can changes in glycoproteins contribute to drug resistance?

Related terms

Antimicrobial Resistance:

The ability of microorganisms to withstand the effects of an antibiotic or antiviral agent.

Enzyme Inhibition: A process where a molecule binds to enzymes and decreases their activity.

Glycans: Complex carbohydrates that play critical roles in cellular processes including immunity and cell signaling.