Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 10, 2026

The Synthesis of RGD-functionalized Hydrogels as a Tool for Therapeutic Applications
Published on: October 7, 2016
RGD-xyloside conjugates prime glycosaminoglycans
Vy M Tran1, Xylophone V Victor, James W Yockman
1Department of Bioengineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA.
None:
Glycosaminoglycans (GAG) play decisive roles in various cardio-vascular & cancer-associated processes. Changes in the expression of GAG fine structures, attributed to deregulation of their biosynthetic and catabolic enzymes, are hallmarks of vascular dysfunction and tumor progression. The wide spread role of GAG chains in blood clotting, wound healing and tumor biology has led to the development of modified GAG chains, GAG binding peptides and GAG based enzyme inhibitors as therapeutic agents. Xylosides, carrying hydrophobic aglycone, are known to induce GAG biosynthesis in various systems. Given the important roles of GAG chains in vascular and tumor biology, we envision that RGD-conjugated xylosides could be targeted to activated endothelial and cancer cells, which are known to express α(v)β(3) integrin, and thereby modulate the pathological processes. To accomplish this vision, xylose residue was conjugated to linear and cyclic RGD containing peptides using click chemistry. Our results demonstrate that RGD-conjugated xylosides are able to prime GAG chains in various cell types, and future studies are aimed toward evaluating potential utility of such xylosides in treating myocardial infarction as well as cancer-associated thrombotic complications.
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...
Proteoglycans
Oligosaccharide Assembly
Multiple sugar molecules that may or may...
Protein Glycosylation
Glycosylation occurs in...
Phase II Reactions: Glucuronidation
Drug Metabolism: Phase II Reactions

