Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are long chains of carbohydrates found in the human body that play a vital role in cell development, repair, and replacement. Certain genetic diseases prevent the body from breaking down GAGs, causing abnormal accumulations and multisystem symptoms. GAG research provides insight into bacterial cell membranes and malignant tissue development.
Glycosaminoglycans or GAGs are long chains of sugary carbohydrates found in many cells of the human body. They perform a variety of functions. Under normal circumstances, the body breaks down polysaccharides on a regular basis to prevent overabundance, and enzymes typically metabolize these complex sugars at the end of a cell’s life. The presence of certain genetic diseases known as lysosomal storage diseases, renders the body unable to carry out this process. Researchers study GAGs and their function in various disease processes.
The building blocks of polysaccharides linked by other molecules and forming thousands of chain variations constitute GAGs. Most GAGs in the body are non-protein hyaluronic acids, while others include chondroitin and heparan sulfate molecules. These GAGs play an important role in cell development, repair and replacement. Chains are vital building blocks for the development of many body systems, including corneas, cartilage and tendons, skin and connective tissue.
Chondroitin sulfate-containing glycosaminoglycans are required for brain, cartilage and tissue development as well as ensuring the stability of neuronal synapses. Heparan sulfate chains participate in the processes of development and regeneration of blood vessels along with the regulation of blood coagulation properties. Both are present during inflammatory processes, and researchers believe that a lack of chondroitin contributes to arthritic changes. Many believe that chondroitin supplements improve joint mobility by improving lubrication.
Interstitial fluid and gelatinous substances in the body also contain glycosaminoglycans called mucopolysaccharides, which regulate fluid viscosity and allow tissues to retain moisture and maintain proper shape. Proper hydration ensures that these interstitial chains function properly. During the natural aging process, a lack of these vital fluids contributes to the loss of elastin and collagen, which causes lines and wrinkles to appear. Many cosmetic products incorporate hyaluronic acid in an attempt to replace the GAGs that the body no longer produces.
As with cellular components, the body regularly clears or replaces glycosaminoglycans on a daily basis, but some people lack this ability. People with mucopolysaccharidosis or genetic lysosomal storage disorders either have insufficient supplies of particular enzymes or completely lack the enzymes needed to disassemble GAGs as needed. The diseases are progressive and, over time, allow for abnormal accumulations of glycosaminoglycans, which results in multisystem symptoms. The buildups cause an altered physical appearance, decreased cognition, skeletal changes, and organ enlargement.
Lipopolysaccharides are GAG components of bacterial cell membranes. The lipid building blocks of these chains form endotoxins that can produce disease. By gaining a better understanding of these GAG chains, researchers develop knowledge to combat how bacteria escape recognition by the immune system or develop resistance to antibiotics. Mucopolysaccharide research also provides insight into the development of malignant tissue.
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