Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 23, 2026

Detection of Glycosaminoglycans by Polyacrylamide Gel Electrophoresis and Silver Staining
Published on: February 25, 2021
Role of glycosaminoglycans in cellular communication
Robert J Linhardt1, Toshihiko Toida
1Departments of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Biology, and Chemical and Biological Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York 12210, and Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, Japan.
Abstract:
Glycosaminoglycans are of critical importance in intercellular communication in organisms. This ubiquitous class of linear polyanions interacts with a wide variety of proteins, including growth factors and chemokines, which regulate important physiological processes. The presence of glycosaminoglycans on cell membranes and in the extracellular matrix also has resulted in their exploitation by infectious pathogens to gain access and entry into animal cells. This Account examines the structural and physical characteristics of these molecules responsible for their interaction with proteins important in cell-cell communication.
Related Concept Videos
Glycosaminoglycans
GAGS are found in the extracellular matrix of vertebrates, invertebrates, and bacteria. Due to their polar nature they attract water, and serve as excellent lubricants or shock absorbers in an animal body.
Hyaluronic...
Matrix Proteoglycans and Glycoproteins
Proteoglycans
Protein Glycosylation
Glycosylation occurs in...
Glycocalyx and its Functions
Components of...
Types of Signaling Molecules
