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PCR Analysis of CD44 Variants in Tumors
1Department of Chemical Pathology, School of Medicine, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK.
Methods in Molecular Medicine
|March 11, 2011
Summary
The CD44 molecule is a transmembrane glycoprotein with a protein core. It undergoes extensive glycosylation and can be further modified with chondroitin sulfate, impacting its molecular weight.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- CD44 is a cell surface glycoprotein involved in cell adhesion and signaling.
- Its structure is complex, with variations in glycosylation and post-translational modifications.
- Understanding CD44 structure is crucial for elucidating its diverse biological functions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To detail the structural composition of the CD44 molecule.
- To describe the post-translational modifications that affect CD44.
- To provide a foundation for further research into CD44 function.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of protein core structure.
- Assessment of N- and O-linked glycosylation.
- Investigation of chondroitin sulfate attachment.
Main Results:
- CD44 possesses a 37-kDa protein core.
- Extensive N- and O-linked glycosylation results in an 85-90 kDa product.
- Chondroitin sulfate addition can yield a 180-220 kDa form.
Conclusions:
- CD44 exhibits significant structural heterogeneity due to glycosylation and sulfation.
- These modifications influence CD44's molecular weight and potential functions.
- The described structural features are key to CD44's role in cellular processes.
