Analysis of glycoprotein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum using synthetic oligosaccharides

Proc Jpn Acad Ser B Phys Biol Sci. 2012;88(2):31-40. doi: 10.2183/pjab.88.31.

Abstract

Protein quality control (QC) in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) comprises many steps, including folding and transport of nascent proteins as well as degradation of misfolded proteins. Recent studies have revealed that high-mannose-type glycans play a pivotal role in the QC process. To gain knowledge about the molecular basis of this process with well-defined homogeneous compounds, we achieved a convergent synthesis of high-mannose-type glycans and their functionalized derivatives. We focused on analyses of UDP-Glc: glycoprotein glucosyltransferase (UGGT) and ER Glucosidase II, which play crucial roles in glycoprotein QC; however, their specificities remain unclear. In addition, we established an in vitro assay system mimicking the in vivo condition which is highly crowded because of the presence of various biomacromolecules.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Endoplasmic Reticulum / enzymology
  • Endoplasmic Reticulum / metabolism*
  • Glycoproteins / biosynthesis
  • Glycoproteins / chemistry
  • Glycoproteins / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Molecular Probes / chemical synthesis
  • Molecular Probes / chemistry
  • Molecular Probes / metabolism
  • Oligosaccharides / chemical synthesis*
  • Oligosaccharides / chemistry
  • Oligosaccharides / metabolism*
  • Protein Processing, Post-Translational*

Substances

  • Glycoproteins
  • Molecular Probes
  • Oligosaccharides