Glycoproteins are protein compounds linked to sugar chains (glycans) that have extremely important functions in living organisms. They are present in almost every cell of the body, where they play a role in cell recognition, communication between cells and in immune processes. Due to their diverse biological functions, glycoproteins are key components in many body systems, such as the immune, digestive, circulatory and endocrine systems. In this article, we will take a closer look at what glycoproteins are, their properties and their functions in the body. Glycoproteins are proteins linked to sugar chains (oligosaccharides). These chains are attached to proteins through the process of glycosylation, which gives glycoproteins specific properties. The structure of glycoproteins, a combination of protein and sugar, allows them to perform a variety of biological functions - from their role as receptors on the surface of cells, to immune mediators, to components of enzymes. Examples of glycoproteins include immunoglobulins (antibodies), cell membrane proteins, digestive enzymes and hormones such as luteinizing hormone (LH) and folliculotropic hormone (FSH).
Glycoproteins are composed of two basic elements: Depending on the type of attachment of sugars to the protein, glycoproteins are divided into two main types:
Glycoproteins play a key role in the functioning of the immune system. Immunoglobulins (antibodies), which are glycoproteins, are responsible for recognizing and neutralizing pathogens such as bacteria, viruses and toxins. In the immune response, glycoproteins are responsible for binding antigens and activating the body's defense mechanisms, enabling a rapid response to infections. Glycoproteins are essential for cell recognition and communication between cells. There are various glycoproteins on the surface of cells that act as receptors. They enable cells to communicate with the external environment by recognizing signals from other cells and responding to them. This is crucial for processes such as fertilization (recognition of the egg cell by the sperm), regulation of cell growth and immune responses. Some glycoproteins act as transporters, helping to transport substances across cell membranes. For example, transport proteins such as transferrin, which carries iron in the blood, are glycoproteins. They promote the transport of nutrients and minerals, which is crucial for cell and tissue function.
Glycoproteins play an important role in blood clotting processes. Clotting factors, such as fibrinogen, are glycoproteins that help form clots, preventing excessive bleeding. As a result, glycoproteins play a key role in wound healing and tissue regeneration after injury. Some glycoproteins function as enzymes or hormones that regulate metabolic and physiological processes in the body. Hormones such as erythropoietin (EPO), which stimulates the production of red blood cells, and certain digestive enzymes are examples of glycoproteins that are crucial to bodily functions.
Glycoproteins play an important role in medical diagnosis and therapy, especially in the fields of immunology and oncology. Monoclonal antibodies, which are used to treat cancer and autoimmune diseases, are glycoproteins with high specificity that target specific cancer cells or pathogens. Glycoproteins are also being studied for their potential applications in regenerative therapies, such as accelerating wound healing, as well as in infectious disease and cancer diagnostics. An example is the testing of tumor markers such as CA-125 antigen in the diagnosis of ovarian cancer. Although glycoproteins are rarely found in typical dietary supplements, some herbal and natural products such as medicinal mushrooms (of which Ganoderma lucidum - Reishi), contain compounds that can affect glycoprotein levels in the body. These mushrooms are rich in polysaccharides and proteins that can support the immune system, as can certain glycoproteins. Company products ENCANNsuch as ENCANN Reishi Liquid Extract, can support the health of the immune system by strengthening the body's natural defenses Glycoproteins are versatile and essential chemical compounds that play a key role in many biological processes of the body. Thanks to their properties, they support the immune system, regulate the transport of substances, support blood clotting and hormonal processes, and participate in cell recognition and communication between cells. Glycoproteins, through their diverse functions, are an indispensable part of the body's healthy functioning and are key in many processes, such as immune reactions, blood clotting and nutrient transport. Source: PubMed (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/); Google Scholar (https://scholar.google.com/); National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI); ResearchGate (https://www.researchgate.net/) Statements given refer to research on adaptogens Hericium Erinaceus, Ganoderma Lucidum, Cordyceps Militaris, Ashwagandha and Coriolus Versicolor not over Encann® brand products. These are not claims regarding the medicinal properties of the product offered. In accordance with the wording of EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT REGULATION 1924/2006, verifiable scientific evidence regarding studies on the use of the fungus is presented on this page. Hedgehog soplolly- one of the components of the offered product.
Glycoproteins - Action and Properties
What Are Glycoproteins?
Glycoproteins - Chemical Composition
Glycoproteins - Action
Support of the Immune System
Cellular Recognition and Communications
Substance Transport
Effects on Blood Clotting
Enzymatic and Hormonal Action
Applications of Glycoproteins in Medicine
Glycoproteins in Supplementation and Related Industries.
Glycoproteins - Summary
Glycoproteins - Action and Properties
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