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Research in Glycobiology Laboratory

Division of Medicinal Chemistry and Natural Products,
UNC School of Pharmacy

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The Glycobiology Laboratory was established in July of 2000. We utilize multidisciplinary approaches to study the problems at the interface of biology and chemistry. Specifically, we are interested in understanding the biosynthesis of heparan sulfate polysaccharides. This laboratory is currently supported by grants from the National Institutes of Health and the American Heart Association.

Research goals: Develop novel anticoagulant and antiviral drugs by targeting the biosynthesis of heparan sulfate.

Heparan Sulfate
Chemical Structure

Heparan sulfate (HS) is a highly sulfated polysaccharide consisting of sulfated iduronic acid or glucuronic acid and sulfated glucosamine.

chemical structure of heparan sulfate
Functions

image showing the function of heparan sulfate

Heparan Sulfate:

  • is a natural anticoagulant on the blood vessel wall (via binding to antithrombin)
  • is a receptor for herpes simplex virus (via binding to viral envelope proteins)
  • suppresses tumor growth
  • controls of eating behaviors (via binding to growth factors)
  • regulates brain development
  UNC School of Pharmacy