Diacetylene-Functionalized Glycan Mimetics for Receptor-Mediated Cluster Imprinting in Model Membranes

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Materials Science
• Cell Biology

Background:

• The cell surface glycocalyx is crucial for cellular functions, but its study in native membranes is challenging due to heterogeneity.
• Synthetic glycocalyx mimetics offer a way to study complex glycan-lectin interactions in controlled environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and utilize novel diacetylene-containing multivalent glycomimetic ligands for integration into model membranes.
• To mimic and study receptor-mediated glycan clustering and membrane microdomain organization.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of a novel SPPoS-compatible building block for site-selective diacetylene incorporation.
• Integration of glycomimetic ligands into giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs).
• Induction of polydiacetylene polymerization via UV irradiation upon lectin binding.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated successful synthesis and incorporation of the glycomimetic building block.
• Observed clustering of glycomimetic ligands and diacetylene units upon lectin binding within GUVs.
• Generated fluorescent polydiacetylene clusters mimicking cell membrane glycan clustering.

Conclusions:

• The developed system provides precise control over glycan cluster formation in model membranes.
• Offers a versatile platform for investigating multivalent glycan-lectin interactions and membrane organization.
• Has potential for advancing understanding of membrane-associated glycan roles in cellular signaling.