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Sialylation in the nervous system: Functions and mechanisms
Kate Koles1, Elena Repnikova2, Boris Novikov1
1Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA.
The Journal of Biological Chemistry
|February 18, 2026
Summary
Glycoprotein sialylation is vital for nervous system function, impacting neuronal excitability and glia interactions. Dysregulation is linked to neurological disorders, but targeting sialylation offers therapeutic potential.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biochemistry
- Glycobiology
Background:
- Glycoprotein sialylation is a key post-translational modification.
- It plays diverse roles in animal biology, particularly within the nervous system.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the multifaceted functions of sialylation in neurophysiology and neurological disorders.
- To highlight sialylation's role in neural processes, neuron-glia interactions, and disease pathogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on glycoprotein sialylation in the nervous system.
- Analysis of research on sialylation's impact on neuronal function, glia interactions, and neurological diseases.
Main Results:
- Sialylation regulates neuronal excitability via ion channels and synaptic transmission.
- It modulates neuron-glia communication, immune responses, and neuroinflammation.
- Genetic defects and aberrant sialylation are linked to cognitive impairment, epilepsy, neurodegeneration, and psychiatric disorders.
Conclusions:
- Sialylation is crucial for normal nervous system function and homeostasis.
- Aberrant sialylation is implicated in various neurological and psychiatric conditions.
- Targeting sialylation pathways presents promising therapeutic avenues for neurological disorders.
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