Disruption of Homeostasis via Functional Glycomic Mechanisms

Glycans are the large sugar molecules that coat proteins and lipids. They are vital for maintaining homeostasis both inside cells and throughout the body. From protein folding and host protection against infection to immunological response and cell-to-cell communication, they are involved in almost every biological function. In modern biology, functional glycomics, the scientific study of glycan structure and function, has emerged as a crucial field that offers profound understanding of how glycans work in both health and illness. This chapter addresses the complex interplay between homeostasis and glycans, such as causes and consequences of glycan dysfunction and their contribution to disease. The chapter proceeds to explain how the glycans can achieve homeostasis, through cell adhesion, receptor regulation, and protein folding. Current technological advance within Glycomics, namely mass spectrometry, glycan micro arraying, and glycoengineering, are discussed as main forces for growth in the subject.These technologies have facilitated the discovery of glycan-based biomarkers and the creation of glycan-based therapies, like glycoengineered biologics and glycan-based vaccines. Despite these developments, challenges persist, including the structural intricacy of glycans, their immunogenicity, and the necessity for interdisciplinary collaboration and technological advancement.The chapter concludes with a call for additional research, emphasizing the necessity of combining Glycomics with other omics technologies, translating research into clinical applications, and generating public awareness of the significance of glycans. Functional Glycomics has tremendous potential for expanding our understanding of biology and for revolutionizing medicine, offering new promise for disease diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. The future of glycomics is huge, and the impact of glycomics on human health and well-being will be tremendous.