Glycosaminoglycans

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Glycosaminoglycans

Glycosaminoglycans (pronunciation: gly·co·sa·mi·no·gly·cans) are long unbranched polysaccharides consisting of a repeating disaccharide unit. The general disaccharide unit consists of an amino sugar (N-acetylglucosamine or N-acetylgalactosamine) along with a uronic sugar (glucuronic acid or iduronic acid) or galactose.

Etymology

The term "Glycosaminoglycans" is derived from the Greek words "glykos" meaning sweet, "amino" referring to the presence of amino groups, and "glykys" meaning sugar. The term thus refers to sweet amino sugars.

Types of Glycosaminoglycans

There are several types of glycosaminoglycans including Hyaluronic Acid, Chondroitin Sulfate, Dermatan Sulfate, Keratan Sulfate, Heparin, and Heparan Sulfate. Each of these types has unique functions and is found in different tissues in the body.

Function

Glycosaminoglycans play crucial roles in various biological processes including cell signaling, cell adhesion, and maintaining the structural integrity of tissues. They are also involved in the lubrication and shock-absorbing functions in the joints.

Related Terms

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