Core fucose: Molecular targets and functions in inflammatory signaling pathways

Glycosylation is a critical post-translational modification of proteins. The proper function and expression of cell-surface proteins-including receptors, transporters, and cell adhesion molecules-depends on glycosylation. Among the various forms of glycosylation, core fucose applied to N-glycans exhibits distinctive characteristics and plays a significant role in numerous biological processes. Here, we focus on the molecular targets of core fucose and review their functions involved in inflammatory signaling pathways and immune systems. Cytokine receptors and toll-like receptors are important targets of core fucosylation. Additionally, core fucosylation of immunoglobulin G (IgG) plays a significant role in regulating antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC). Recent studies-including ours-also indicate that the level of core fucose of IgG could serve as a valuable biomarker for monitoring inflammatory status in individuals. Modulation with monosaccharide fucose is a small event for the target molecules, but core fucose exerts a significant impact on inflammation.