Lectin-Glycan Interactions: new NMR insights on the role of dynamics and presentation by using state-of-the-art NMR methodologies.

Abstract

Glycans are ubiquitous in Nature. They are mainly found conjugated with other biomolecules giving rise to glycoproteins and glycolipids. Relevant biological events such as cell-cell, cell-matrix and host-pathogen interactions are orchestrated through the recognition of glycans by a group of specific proteins, called lectins. Several sub-families of lectins can be differentiated, being galectins, C-type lectins, and siglecs the most studied and suitable for biomedical applications.In this Thesis, different lectin-sugar systems have been selected and the fine details of their binding events have been decoded from the structural, conformational, and dynamic points of view. Particular attention to aspects such as conformational motions, multivalency, presentation, and the actual in-vitro or cell-like environment were the driving force behind this work.