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Sialic acid binding receptors are selectins and Siglecs
Sialic acids are carboxylated monosaccharides on glycosylated proteins and lipids because of posttranslational modification
Removal of sialic acids moieties exposes underlying glycans(brain://lv2gH4oXPEm5p5_m6-Tz5g/GlycansPolysaccharides) that, in turn, could be recognized or sensed, thereby affecting cell–cell communication
High expression of sialic acids has been proposed to protect cancer cells from recognition and eradication by the immune system.
Sialic acids as acidic sugars are vital components in biological systems, occupying the terminal position on macromolecules and cell membranes. Sialic acids are predominantly found at the non-reducing end of N-linked and O-linked glycans attached to proteins or glycolipids. They are involved in a wide range of biological and pathological processes. Within the sialic acid family, researchers have identified over 40 derivatives of neuraminic acid. In humans and many mammals, the most common form is N-acetylneuraminic acid. However, the regulation of their metabolism at both the enzyme and gene levels, as well as their specific functions, remains largely unexplored. Sialic acids serve a dual purpose: they are essential for the protection and adaptation of life, yet they are also exploited by harmful infectious microorganisms.
see also:
Cancer / Tumors & Glycosylation
Goblet cells & Mucus
Host Defense / Immune system & Sialic acid
Tumor immune escape