glycan array technology

Glycan array technology is a laboratory method that allows researchers to study how different sugar molecules (glycans) interact with proteins, such as antibodies or enzymes. In this technique, various glycans are attached to a solid surface in a grid-like pattern. When a protein sample is applied, it binds to specific glycans, revealing which ones interact. This helps scientists understand immune responses, pathogen recognition, and biological processes involving sugars, all crucial for developing vaccines, diagnostics, and therapies. It’s a powerful tool to analyze complex sugar-protein interactions systematically and efficiently.