Carbohydrate-binding modules: powerful tools in the research and development of carbohydrates - a review

Carbohydrate-binding modules (CBMs) are independent domains generally appended in carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes) with carbohydrate-binding functions. The primary roles of CBMs in CAZymes include targeting, proximity, disruption, and adhesion effects. Due to their capacity to recognize and bind to specific carbohydrate structures, CBMs have emerged as valuable tools with wide applications, greatly facilitating the research and development of carbohydrates. This review summarizes the recent research progress and applications of CBMs, with particular emphasis on their applications as: (i) molecular probes, (ii) fusion partners, and (iii) connection bridges, especially in the last decade. Future efforts in the field of CBMs should focus on the development of specificity prediction tools, and investigations of their interactions with oligosaccharides and their biochemical properties. Furthermore, novel applications of CBMs, including the purification of structurally defined carbohydrates, are expected to be further explored. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry.