TIn segment 2 of the Human Glycome Atlas Project (HGA), the generation of a large-scale human glycome catalog (total human plasma glycome) is one of the most important missions for constructing a database called TOHSA. In this section, we introduce our latest studies, including sample preparation for the analysis of O-glycans in human plasma/serum. ...and more
This article focuses on the crystal structures of monosaccharides and rare sugars and explores how the molecules interact with each other (i.e., intermolecular interaction) and how this interaction affects the morphology and properties of the crystals. Examining these points reveals the characteristics of a substance. There are molecules that have very similar molecular structures but very different crystal structures; for example, D-glucose and D-allose, or D-fructose and D-allulose. I am attempting to clarify these structural differences and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of hydrogen bond formation and intermolecular interactions. I am also investigating the potential for novel applications of rare sugar crystals, and here I present an approach on how to control the crystal structure to obtain a specific physical property. In addition, this article provides a new perspective on the longstanding mystery of whether the crystal structure of monosaccharides can be controlled. ...and more
Characterized as fibrous materials with diameters ranging from submicrons to nanometers, electrospun nonwoven nanofibers are promising candidates for use as culture substrates and in regenerative medicine. Their distinct properties, including high specific surface area, porosity, and light weight, make them particularly suitable for these applications. Nanofibers can be fabricated from a variety of polymers, frequently exhibiting performance superior to that of conventional materials. This review article focuses on electrospinning technologies for producing nanofibers from polysaccharides and their derivatives. ...and more
Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), a particular class of linear anionic periodic polysaccharides, are key players in many biomolecular mechanisms underlying tissue regeneration and pathological processes such as cancer, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. They present significant challenges for experimental analysis due to their intrinsic physicochemical properties. That is why theoretical approaches to study these fascinating molecules are remarkably promising, especially in light of the immense increase in the computational resources available nowadays. In this article, we introduce you to the world of molecular modeling where you will learn about the basics of various techniques widely used in computational field, with a focus on GAGs research. ...and more
Replacing the native O-glycosidic linkage in glycans with a C-glycosidic linkage can create analogs resistant to glycoside hydrolases without significantly altering the overall structure. The C-glycosidic linkage also allows the introduction of substituents, enabling the construction of diverse glycan architectures. This paper introduces glycan analogs linked via a simple CH2 group as well as those linked through a CHF group. These three types of analogs (including diastereomers) possess similar steric characteristics but distinct electronic properties. We summarize current knowledge on synthetic methodologies for "linkage-editing" and discuss its impact on the biological functions of glycans. ...and more
