Innovative Glycan Engineering: From Experimental Techniques to Clinical Applications

In the expanding field of glycoscience, the advent of synthetic glycobiology has marked a pivotal transformation, primarily through the development of synthetic glycans and glycan-mimetic molecules that emulate natural structures. These synthetic compounds elucidate natural glycosylation processes and have spearheaded numerous potential therapeutic applications in diverse biomedical fields. The use of glycan antigens in vaccine development has shown promise in eliciting potent immune responses, which is crucial in the fight against infectious diseases and in cancer prevention. In cancer therapy, researchers are targeting aberrant glycosylation patterns unique to tumor cells, offering pathways for novel treatment regimens. Moreover, in the realm of antimicrobial development, glycan-mimetic compounds are being explored to inhibit pathogen entry and prevent immune system evasion, presenting new solutions to combat resistance.

The goal of this Research Topic is to document and elucidate the latest developments in glycoscience, with an emphasis on the innovative techniques and biochemical methodologies that are reshaping the field. Despite substantial progress, challenges persist in the scalable production of complex glycans and in the detailed understanding of glycosylation's multifaceted roles in various diseases, including cancer, autoimmune, and neurodegenerative disorders. These challenges underscore the need for continued research and development of innovative therapeutic strategies that leverage glycan biochemistry.

To cover the breadth of this vibrant field, the scope of this Research Topic is defined by:

-Challenges in the production and scalable synthesis of complex glycans.
-Development of refined glycan-based strategies for therapeutic applications.

Highlighted themes for contribution include, but are not limited to:

-New experimental data and methodologies in synthetic glycobiology and glycoengineering.
-Applications of functional glycomics in developing glycan-based therapies.
-Review articles that provide comprehensive overviews of recent advancements in glycoscience and glycan synthesis technologies.
-Methods articles detailing innovative techniques for glycan synthesis, analysis, and their therapeutic applications.

These contributions will enhance the conventional and contemporary understanding, propelling forward the applications of glycoscience in addressing prevailing and emerging health challenges.