Glycan microarrays

Glycan microarrays are laboratory tools used to study complex sugar structures called glycans, which are attached to proteins and fats in our bodies. These microarrays have many different glycans fixed on a small surface. When a sample, like an antibody, is applied to the array, it binds to specific glycans, allowing scientists to identify which ones are recognized. This helps researchers understand immune responses, disease mechanisms, and develop treatments. Essentially, glycan microarrays act like a high-tech "test plate" to quickly analyze many sugar-related interactions at once, providing valuable insights into biological processes.