fucose binding

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

Binding to fucose, the pentose 6-deoxygalactose. [ISBN:0582227089]

Fucose binding is a molecular function that involves the specific recognition and interaction of proteins or other molecules with the monosaccharide fucose. Fucose is a hexose sugar that is commonly found in glycoconjugates, including glycoproteins, glycolipids, and polysaccharides. Fucose binding proteins, also known as lectins, play crucial roles in various biological processes, including cell adhesion, signaling, immune response, and development.

The binding of fucose to its cognate proteins is typically mediated by a specific binding site, which often involves a combination of amino acid residues that interact with the sugar molecule via hydrogen bonds, van der Waals forces, and hydrophobic interactions. The binding site is often located in a groove or pocket on the protein surface that is complementary to the shape and chemical properties of fucose.

The biological functions of fucose binding are diverse and depend on the specific protein and its cellular context. For example, fucose-binding lectins can mediate cell-cell interactions by recognizing fucosylated glycans on the surface of other cells. These interactions are essential for proper tissue development and organogenesis. In the immune system, fucose-binding lectins can bind to fucosylated antigens on pathogens, triggering immune responses. Fucose binding can also play a role in the regulation of signal transduction pathways by modulating the interaction of proteins with their receptors.

The molecular function of fucose binding is also implicated in various diseases, including cancer and inflammation. Aberrant fucosylation patterns have been observed in tumor cells, and fucose-binding lectins have been shown to contribute to tumor growth and metastasis. In inflammatory diseases, fucose-binding lectins can mediate the recruitment of immune cells to sites of inflammation.

The study of fucose binding has provided valuable insights into the role of glycans in biological processes. The development of new technologies for analyzing fucosylated glycoconjugates and identifying fucose-binding proteins has opened up exciting possibilities for understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying these interactions and their implications for human health.'
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Proteins (3)

Compounds (11)